Search Results (29)

This study explores the provenance of white marble architectural elements from Roman Philippopolis, with a particular focus on the Eastern Gate complex. By determining the origin of the marble, we aim to elucidate economic, social, and urban dynamics related to material selection and trade networks. The investigation examines the symbolic significance of prestigious marble in elite representation and highlights the role of quarry exploitation in the region’s economic and technological development. The Eastern Gate, a monumental ensemble integrated into the city’s urban fabric, was primarily constructed with local Rhodope marble, alongside imported materials such as Prokonnesian marble. Analytical methods included petrographic examination, chemical analysis of trace elements (Mn, Mg, Fe, Sr, Y, V, Cd, La, Ce, Yb, and U), and stable isotope analysis (δ¹⁸O, δ¹³C). Statistical evaluations were performed for each sample (37 in total) and compared with a comprehensive database of ancient quarry sources. The results underscore the dominance of local materials while also indicating selective use of imports, potentially linked to symbolic or functional criteria. The findings support the hypothesis of local workshop activity in the Asenovgrad/Philippopolis area and shed light on regional and long-distance marble trade during the Roman Imperial period, reflecting broader economic and cultural interconnections. Full article

La Vispesa is an archaeological settlement occupied from the First Iron Age to the Imperial Roman Period. The objectives of this study were to (i) perform a geomorphological characterization of the site; (ii) place it in its regional context; (iii) obtain values of uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) to characterize the construction materials; (iv) assess the chronological data obtained; (v) establish the origin of the sandstones used; and (vi) assess the application of these techniques at archaeological sites. UCS estimations were produced for the preserved walls using a Schmidt hammer, and two groups of samples were identified. In these samples, stones from the Iberian Epoch walls were considerably weathered, while the Roman ashlars were well preserved as they were built from better-quality material that produced high UCS values. In addition, measurements of various sandstone outcrops probably used as quarries were made to compare values. Only one sandstone outcrop had estimations that could relate to the provision of raw material for the Roman period, while other estimations are compatible with Iberian walls. The application of this methodology proves to be highly beneficial for the analysis and comprehension of ancient constructions. Full article

Serpentinite is a common lithology in Greece with significant geotectonic and petrogenetic implications, yet its archaeometric study remains limited. This also applies to the Ras serpentinite outcrop on Tinos Island—an enigmatic ancient quarry with no prior documentation of its exploitation. This study aims to provide a holistic provenance analysis and full material characterization to establish a unique fingerprint for future comparative research. A multidisciplinary methodology was applied, including petrography, XRD, FTIR, BET, LA-ICP-MS, electron microprobe analyses, and lichenometry—the latter used to estimate the quarry’s period of activity. The Ras serpentinite consists of a dark-green, brecciated lizardite matrix cut by a pale-green chrysotile network, and notably hosts the first recorded occurrence of minnesotaite in Greece. Relict antigorite within the matrix indicates high-pressure, high-temperature metamorphism preceding a greenschist facies overprint. Geochemical data classify the Ras occurrence as a subduction-related serpentinite derived from a depleted ultrabasic protolith. The aforementioned traits distinguish it from other Greek examples. Lichenometric analysis suggests the quarry was active in the 13th century A.D., with evidence of deliberate extraction techniques. These findings offer valuable insights into archaeometric studies and the provenance of serpentinites in the Aegean. Full article

A Miocene carbonatic clay quarried in Transylvania (Romania) has been used for more than 100 years for the production of traditional ceramic ware, bricks, and tiles. To investigate the mineralogical and microstructural changes of this clay when heated between 700 °C and 1200 °C, a combination of polarized light optical microscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was applied. Primary mineral phases such as illite, muscovite, feldspar, carbonate, Fe oxyhydroxides, and quartz undergo a gradual thermal alteration and form, besides a glassy phase, a wide range of minerals such as gehlenite, clinopyroxene, feldspar, maghemite, hematite, mullite, and α-cristobalite. These firing phases can be regarded as ‘ceramic markers’. A comparison between the data obtained by several methods is discussed. The combination of the optical appearance and the microstructure on one side, and the specific associations of primary phases and ceramic markers on the other side, can be used as a ‘ceramic thermometer’ in estimating the firing temperature for ancient ceramics. Full article

This study presents a systematic analysis of stable isotopes (δ¹³C and δ¹⁸O) in Pentelic marble from the ancient quarries of Mount Pentelikon, Greece. A total of 610 samples were collected from 83 quarry pits, including all identified ancient extraction sites, to build a comprehensive reference database. Of those, stable isotope ratios of carbon and oxygen were measured for 384 samples. The results reveal significant variability in stable isotope values across different quarry regions, challenging the assumption of isotopic homogeneity in Pentelic marble. Notably, distinct δ¹³C and δ¹⁸O patterns allow differentiation between quarry areas and specific extraction zones. These findings provide a more refined isotopic framework for provenance studies of ancient artifacts. Application of the new database suggests that marble for the Parthenon’s West Pediment was sourced from the northern upslope quarries in Aspra Marmara, whereas structural elements of the Parthenon were extracted from the lower Spilia Divail quarry, as well as other pits across the ancient quarry zone. The results demonstrate that multiple quarry pits from both the lower slope and upper slope quarries were exploited for the construction of the Parthenon. This research highlights the benefits of extensive sampling and stable isotope analysis in identifying quarry sources, emphasizing the value of undertaking detailed and thorough field surveys and sampling programs to gain new perspectives into ancient resource use. Full article

Underground monument preservation is tightly linked to geological risk. The geological risk management of underground structures typically relies on a preliminary site investigation phase. Engineering geological mapping—as a key site investigation element—is largely based on manual in situ work, often in harsh and dangerous environments. However, although new technologies can, in many cases, decrease the on-field time as well as eliminate inaccessibility issues, the example presented in this study demonstrates a special challenge that had to be addressed. The ancient underground marble quarries of Paros Island in Greece constitute a gallery complex of a total length of 7 km and only two portals, resulting in total darkness throughout almost the full length of the unsurveyed galleries. As such, the entire survey and engineering geological mapping solely relied on a virtual reality application that was developed based on a digital replica of the quarries using laser scanning. The study identifies several critical locations with potentially unstable geologic structures and computes their geometrical properties. Further numerical analyses based on data extracted directly from the digital replica of the rock mass led to the definition of appropriate risk mitigation measures along the underground marble quarries. Full article

This paper presents the results of the analyses conducted on 46 stone samples collected from Roman buildings in Oderzo, a small town located in the heart of the eastern Venetian plain (29 samples), and from architectural artifacts preserved at the local archeological museum “Eno Bellis” (17 samples). The aim of this study is to identify the types and provenance of the stones used for architectural purposes in Roman times in the city of Oderzo (ancient Opitergium). All the materials were petrographically characterized using a multi-analytical approach, including polarized light optical microscopy (PLM). Moreover, volcanic rock samples were analyzed via X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and quantitative phase analysis via X-Ray powder diffraction (QPA-XRPD) to obtain more detailed mineralogical and geochemical characterizations. These methods proved valuable for better determining the provenance of the materials. The results allowed us to determine the quarrying areas that Opitergium mostly relied upon in antiquity for sourcing building materials, as well as the stone trade networks in which the city was integrated. Preliminary findings indicate a higher frequency of stones sourced from outcrops along the Prealpine Arc of north-eastern Italy and Istria, including Aurisina limestone (Trieste Karst), and micritic limestones possibly quarried in the Istrian peninsula for architectural artifacts. Conversely, lithotypes from north-western Prealps appear to have been used less frequently. The volcanic rock samples were entirely sourced from various quarry sites in the Euganean Volcanic District in the Veneto region. Full article

In 44 BC, Julius Caesar established Colonia Laus Iulia Corinthiensis, strategically reviving Corinth to dominate Isthmian trade routes and extend Rome’s commercial influence eastwards. At the centre of the colony lies Temple E, an enigmatic structure with an unidentified associated cult. This study investigates the architectural characteristics of Temple E, focusing on the use of marble as the primary building material. Petrographic analysis, elemental chemical profiling (Mn, Mg, Fe, Sr, Y, V, Cd, La, Ce, Yb, U), and isotopic measurements (δ¹⁸O ‰, δ¹³C ‰) are employed to analyse marble samples from the surrounding region, exploring sourcing and construction practices. Statistical comparisons with ancient quarry databases indicate a strong reliance on locally sourced Doliana marble, underscoring the economic significance of regional quarries and suggesting the existence of a local workshop dedicated to architectural production in Roman Corinth. By integrating geological and archaeometric approaches, this study highlights Corinth’s pivotal role in the regional marble trade and its broader economic importance during the Roman Imperial period. The findings emphasise the use of local resources, illustrating a flourishing marble-working industry and enhancing our understanding of the relationship between local materials and Roman architectural practices. Full article

Limestone has always been widely used in various sectors, thus having significant economic and environmental impacts. The quarrying process is, on the one hand, essential, but on the other, harmful to the environment and people’s health, therefore, the challenge is finding a balance. This review explores the multifaceted nature of limestone, a sedimentary rock predominantly composed of calcium carbonate. The formation of limestone, along with its various types and global occurrence, is discussed to provide a basic understanding. The diverse applications of limestone range from historical uses in ancient monuments to contemporary roles in cement production, plasticized polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and soda–lime glass. The discussion extends to post-mining solutions, showcasing successful rehabilitation and innovative repurposing of former quarries into useful infrastructures, wildlife habitats, and cultural spaces. This article draws attention to the importance of sustainable practices and technological developments to balance resource use with environmental conservation. Ultimately, it emphasizes the need for responsible limestone quarrying and proactive rehabilitation strategies to ensure that no permanent ecological problems will occur. Full article

Bracara Augusta (Braga, Portugal), one of the most important cities of the NW Iberian Peninsula, was founded by the emperor Augustus approximately between the years 16/15 BC. Throughout the Roman period, it has undergone various monumentalisation programmes according to its status, the first one as a convent capital and a later one as a provincial capital. The investigation of the economic cost of construction in the ancient world allows us to understand Roman architecture and the society of builders, both from economic and social perspectives. In recent years, based on the works of Janet DeLaine and Paolo Barresi, despite the large number of variables and the difficulty of quantifying them, a calculation methodology has been developed to approximate the cost of architecture, based on the information contained in two main documents: the Diocletian’s Edict of Prices (301 AD) and the nineteenth-century architecture and engineering manuals summarised by Pegoretti. Our goal is to understand part of the construction process of Roman architecture in the NW Iberian Peninsula, considering the cost of raw materials, namely stone, and the labour required in its preparation and utilisation. In this study, we present a cost proposal associated with the monumentalisation of two of the city’s important buildings: the forum’s large buildings and the theatre. The construction of the city was made fundamentally using local stone, from different quarries, endowing it with notable buildings and requiring a strong contribution from the local elites. Full article

Marble has been a prominent natural stone exploited since ancient times, commonly employed as a building material and ornamental stone. However, the disposal of waste generated from marble extraction, particularly fine sludge, poses significant environmental challenges for the dimensional stone industry. The difficulty in managing and recovering these materials, exacerbated by local regulations and the absence of suitable recovery protocols, often leads to landfilling. This issue is exemplified by the Carrara Marble Basin in the Apuan Alps (Tuscany, Italy), where more than half of the extracted marble remains as quarry waste or debris. Modern cutting technologies have intensified the production of finer materials and sawing residue, known as “marmettola”, ranging in size from fine sand to silt. The disposal of these materials, commonly through landfilling or abandonment, has profound environmental repercussions. This research primarily aimed to carry out a preliminary physical, mineralogical, and morphological characterization of the fine waste and sludges generated from Carrara Marble exploitation. The findings reveal the high granulometric uniformity of the materials, and a nearly pure carbonate composition, suggesting potential for reuse in various industrial sectors such as paper, plastics, and pharmaceuticals production. Full article

The southern part of the Mekong Delta Limestones of Vietnam (MDL-HC or Hon Chong karst) comprises numerous small limestone hills. It is a hotspot of biodiversity for soil and cave invertebrates. Here, we synthesize the results of biological surveys carried out in Hang Mo So, the richest MDL-HC cave for troglobionts, and in surrounding karsts. Methodologies for the ecological characterization of species are discussed, with emphasis on parallel sampling (external soil plus cave). Hang Mo So has 27 troglobionts, including many still undescribed. An additional 40 cave-obligate species are known from other caves of MDL-HC. Among them, several are expected to be found in Hang Mo So. Most troglobionts of MDL-HC are endemic. Several relictual taxa without close relatives in Southeast Asia occur in Hang Mo So and in MDL-HC, reflecting an ancient origin of the fauna. The reasons for this richness are uncertain, but the cause of its current destruction—quarrying—is all too evident. Most of the original 4 km² of the MDL-HC karst has been destroyed or soon will be, ultimately leaving only 1.6 km² unquarried. Endemic species linked to karst habitats are, therefore, under clear threat of extinction. The Hon Chong karst (MDL-HC) was listed among the ten most endangered karsts on the planet 25 years ago. Today it would probably top the list. Full article

Rendzinas in the taiga zone are intrazonal soils; moreover, all of their processes occur in ways that are different from podzolic soil formation, which is typical for the zonal taiga boreal ecosystem. At the same time, the habitats of carbonate soils are known as places in which there is a concentration of biodiversity in the more southern regions, as they are drier, are insolated, and have a higher trophic state than zonal podzols. The biotopes on carbonate soils are becoming more southern and are dominated by nemoralis species of flora, including abundant calciphilous plant species. Carbonate soils regulate biogeochemical processes within their distribution and in the geochemically subordinate landscapes of Northwest Russia. They are associated with the existence of a number of specially protected natural areas, as well as the implementation of a number of important ecosystem services. Carbonate soils of the southern taiga are endangered and require special protection. The belt of the carbonate soils in the northwestern Russian and Baltic regions extends to Poland and is the basis for the formation of a special landscape–ecological framework with specific biodiverse, biogeochemical, and geographical characteristics. The intensive extraction of limestone from quarries leads to the destruction of rendzinas, which makes them increasingly rare and extremely vulnerable. The rate of recovery of rendzina soils after technogenic impacts is much slower than the regeneration of zonal podzols; therefore, they are an almost non-renewable resource. Thus, rendzinas are an important component of the Northwest Russian soil cover, where all factors of soil formation “refract” and acquire specificity, leading to radical changes not only in the soil-forming potential of the environment but in all of the components of terrestrial ecosystems. In other words, the island of alkaline rocks inherited from the ancient seas is currently pedogeochemically actualized in the soil cover of vast taiga areas. Full article

Aléria was the main city of the island of Corsica in ancient times. Archaeological excavations in the area where ancient Aléria once stood began between the 1950s and 1960s and brought to light numerous inscriptions mainly carved on slabs of white marble; they constitute an important source of knowledge of the city’s institutions, urban topography, society, and economy. The provenance of the marbles, on which the inscriptions were carved, can add important information about the history of the city. A first visual examination of the slabs or slab fragments allows us to state that Carrara is probably the provenance of most of the marbles used. Practical reasons lead us to believe that the provenance of these marbles can be traced back to two main quarry areas: Carrara, or somewhere in Corsica. The determination of the stable isotope composition of these marbles could solve this problem. Carrara marble, in fact, has a narrow range of isotopic variability, with values typical of marine carbonates, that allows for a strong characterization. The petrographic method of investigation was used, as a second step, on a reduced number of marble inscriptions to evaluate the effectiveness of the isotopic characterization of Carrara. The results of the analysis confirmed that most of the gray and white marbles studied have Carrara as their quarrying area; they also revealed that in Corsica the presence of ancient local marble quarries is uncertain, even in Roman times. Full article

Ancient mining and quarrying activities left anthropogenic geomorphologies that have shaped the natural landscape and affected environmental equilibria. The artificial structures and their related effects on the surrounding environment are analyzed here to characterize the quarrying landscape in the southeast area of Rome in terms of its dimensions, typology, state of preservation and interface with the urban environment. The increased occurrence of sinkhole events in urban areas has already been scientifically correlated to ancient cavities under increasing urban pressure. In this scenario, additional interacting anthropogenic factors, such as the aerial bombardments perpetrated during the Second World War, are considered here. These three factors have been investigated by employing a combined geomatic methodology. Information on air raids has been organized in vector archives. A dataset of historical aerial photographs has been processed into Digital Surface Models and orthomosaics to reconstruct the quarry landscape and its evolution, identify typologies of exploitation and forms of collapse and corroborate the discussion concerning the induced historical and recent subsidence phenomena, comparing these outputs with photogrammetric products obtained from recent satellite data. Geological and urbanistic characterization of the study area allowed a better connection between these historical and environmental factors. In light of the information gathered so far, SAR interferometric products allowed a preliminary interpretation of ground instabilities surrounding historical quarries, air raids and recent subsidence events. Various sub-areas of the AOI where the presence of the considered factors also corresponds to areas in slight subsidence in the SAR velocity maps have been highlighted. Bivariate hotspot analysis allowed substantiating the hypothesis of a spatial correlation between these multiple aspects. Full article