Archaeological Field Studies

Archaeogeophysics is a significant branch of research that applies geophysical methods to the study of archaeological sites. Having emerged in the latter half of the 1940s, geophysical surveying has become a widely used practice in the investigation of archaeological sites today. Through the use of various geophysical techniques—such as magnetometry, ground-penetrating radar (GPR), electrical resistivity tomography, seismic tomography (Vp-Vs), spontaneous potential, and induced polarization tomography—archaeological sites can be examined in an integrated manner. This allows for a detailed visualization of the archaeological context, facilitating a comprehensive interpretation of the settlement. Three-dimensional imaging, in particular, enables the holistic characterization of features within an archaeological context across varying depths. This is especially valuable for multi-layered settlements, such as mounds (tells), where it helps determine the downward extent and nature of buried structures. Because the archaeological context is defined based on variations in physical properties, the use of integrated geophysical techniques provides archaeologists with crucial data regarding the nature of these variations prior to excavation.

Archaeoseismology aims to gather data on past earthquakes that have affected archaeological sites, ultimately determining whether a given settlement was subjected to seismic activity. By examining and measuring the deformations observed in structures at sites affected by earthquakes—and by establishing their general characteristics—it becomes possible to compare data collected on the earthquake(s) that affected a city with the tectonic phenomena that occurred in the region during the Holocene—and subsequently identifying traces of these seismic events within archaeological contexts—makes a significant contribution to the field of archaeology.

Archaeological surface survey is the process of identifying, mapping, interpreting, and documenting cultural remains—both on the surface and subsurface—within a given area. The application of geophysical techniques during such surveys allows for the detection of deep-seated features, thereby providing substantial insights for archaeology and enabling more precise targeting for potential excavation efforts.

Rescue excavations and archaeological test pits are typically employed at sites under threat. Geophysical surveys conducted prior to these interventions offer invaluable support to the overall investigative process, facilitating a more detailed examination of the archaeological context within a shorter timeframe.

In the restoration and conservation, geophysics serves as a critical diagnostic tool, allowing for an assessment of a historical structure and its underlying ground without requiring direct physical intervention. By identifying weak zones, hidden structural elements, voids, settlement issues, cracks and fractures, moisture-related problems, material defects, and evidence of past alterations or the use of varied materials, geophysical surveys help reveal potential risks. This, in turn, ensures a more successful restoration and conservation process while helping to streamline the overall workflow.