Describe the types of shelter and housing that were used by Paleolithic peoples
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Ancient_History/Human_Evolution/Paleolithic_Age
https://www.boundless.com/art-history/prehistoric-art/the-paleolithic-period/paleolithic-architecture-shelter-or-art/
The Paleolithic era, also known as the Old Stone Age, lasted from about 2.6 million years ago to around 10,000 BCE. During this time, Paleolithic peoples used various types of shelters and housing suited to their nomadic lifestyle and the resources available to them. Here are some of the main types of shelters used by Paleolithic peoples:
1. Caves and Rock Shelters: One of the most common types of shelters used by Paleolithic peoples were natural caves and rock shelters. These provided protection from the elements and served as temporary or seasonal homes. They could be found in cliffs, mountains, or areas with rock formations. Caves also offered a safe refuge from predators.
2. Pit Dwellings: In areas where caves were not available, Paleolithic people would dig pits in the ground and use them as temporary dwellings. These pit dwellings, also known as earth lodges, were usually covered with animal skins, branches, and leaves to provide insulation and protection.
3. Tents and Huts: Paleolithic people often constructed temporary shelters using wooden frames, animal bones, and animal skins. These structures were simple and easy to assemble, allowing them to be moved easily from one location to another. They could be in the form of tents or huts, providing a basic level of protection from the elements.
4. Animal Hide Structures: Animal skins and hides played a crucial role in Paleolithic shelter construction. They were used to cover and insulate various types of structures, including frames made from wood, bone, or antlers. Animal hides helped keep the dwellings warm and protected the inhabitants from wind, rain, and cold temperatures.
It is important to note that the exact types of shelters used by Paleolithic peoples varied across different regions and time periods, depending on factors such as climate, available resources, and cultural practices. The study of archeology and anthropological research helps provide insights into the specific types of shelters used by these ancient cultures.