Continuity or disruption in a megalithic tomb?: Bayesian modelling of the radiocarbon dates from La Velilla site (Osorno, prov. Palencia)

Abstract

This paper aims to analyse the chronological history of the tomb of La Velilla (Osorno, Palencia) by considering a series of radiocarbon dating results on human bones which have been modelled using Bayesian statistical techniques. By combining chronological data and archaeological information referring to the burial rites, we intend to discern possible episodes of use that occurred along the life history of this megalithic tomb. We venture here that La Velilla was used as a successive burial ground through time, and that the burial rites also reflect a wish of continuity along the history of the monument.