CONICET | Buscador de Institutos y Recursos Humanos

human remains along with animals, especially domestic species such as horses and dogs. In most chronicles the reason for these practices is primarily related to the accompaniment of the dead. Thus, these animals were part of the properties of the deceased and were deposited with them. The aim of this paper is to discuss this evidence in relation to that provided by the archaeological record The ethnohistorical record of Southern Patagonia abounds in references to mortuary practices that involve the interment ofof Southern Patagonia during the late Holocene. We will particularly emphasize the information obtained in mortuary contexts from Lake Salitroso (Santa Cruz Province, Argentina). In this area a total of 37 burials -including different types, such as chenques, burial under blocks and niches- have been studied. Results indicate low frequency of animal remains, mostly corresponding to guanaco (Lama guanicoe). Additionally, certain variability in skeletal part representation has been detected. These characteristics are not reflected in the documentary sources, but are common in the regional archaeological record. Finally, another outcome of interest is the presence of animal remains deposited by natural processes (rodents, edentates and carnivores). In sum, by comparing the ethnohistorical and archaeological records we seek to discuss the changing role played by animal species in the funerary practices of hunter-gatherer populations in Southern Patagonia

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