Jebel Irhoud, also spelled Jebel Ighoud, lies between Safi and Marrakech. Its archaeological importance emerged when mining operations for barium exposed an occupation in a cave. The deposits contained a typical Mousterian industry together with grassland fauna, two Neanderthal crania, and hearths, combining evidence for human presence, technology, fire use, and the surrounding environment.

The lithic assemblage is dominated by side-scrapers and Mousterian points. End-scrapers and other forms occur in much smaller numbers, giving the collection a strongly Mousterian character. No typical tanged Aterian points were present, although the form of some faceted striking platforms may have contributed to interpretations connected with the tang, which the passage identifies as a specialized Aterian invention.

Jebel Irhoud also has chronological significance within the regional discussion. It produced the only radiocarbon date cited for a Mousterian industry in the extract, reported as greater than 32,000 BP. The date is presented alongside the typological and stratigraphic evidence rather than as a complete chronology for the site.