Lubrano, ValentinaRufà, Annalasco, RuthRivals, FlorentRosell, Jordi2025-02-272025-02-272025-02-151866-9557http://hdl.handle.net/10400.1/26823The identification of the duration of Neanderthal occupations is a tricky topic by the palimpsest nature of archaeological assemblages. This study explores the challenges associated with distinguishing between long and short-term occupations, using qualitative and quantitative data from relevant archaeological sites in the Late Middle Palaeolithic in Spain and south-eastern France. We highlight the proposed occupation models and their specific characteristics, considering the heterogeneity of archaeological evidence and the limitations of current methodologies. The article offers a reassessment of the topic, critically analysing the current indicators used to determine the duration of Neanderthal occupations. Furthermore, we discuss the complexity in defining the concepts of short and long-term occupation, emphasising the need for a multidisciplinary approach to fully understand the complexity of the practices of the Late Neanderthals.engNeanderthalsHuman behaviourLate Middle PalaeolithicTemporal resolutionjournal article10.1007/s12520-025-02163-01866-9565