Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Mapping

In recent years, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have come to be widely used in archaeological, geological, geophysical, and geotechnical research. By utilizing these information systems, the results of various studies conducted within a specific area can be integrated into a unified database, facilitating comprehensive documentation of the site.

In archaeological research, GIS enables the documentation of a wide range of data—including findings from surveys and excavations, maps, photographs, profile drawings, outputs from archaeological prospecting methods, and the dating results of recovered artifacts—within a single database. Furthermore, GIS can make significant contributions to archaeology by enabling the creation of virtual reconstructions or new visual representations of archaeological settlements.

In the earth sciences, GIS allows for the integration of data into a database concerning various natural features and phenomena, such as active fault systems, formations prone to landslides, the characteristics and thickness of sedimentary cover, subsurface imaging for geomorphological analysis, paleo-channels, karst cavities, the locations of shallow aquifers, and potential issues related to diverse hydrogeological or soil conditions.

GIS and mapping activities are carried out using GNSS (Global Navigation Satellite System) technologies, specifically through RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) and CORS (Continuously Operating Reference Station) methods. Thus, by establishing a grid (in dimensions such as 1×1, 2×2, 5×5, or 10×10 m) across archaeological sites, it becomes possible to obtain precise measurements. Furthermore, drones are now used to create accurate topographic maps of archaeological sites, enabling micro-topographic studies based on the density of the measurements taken.