Search Results (366)

This work explores the application of robotic systems in archaeology, highlighting their transformative role in excavation, documentation, and the preservation of cultural heritage. By combining technologies such as LiDAR, GIS, 3D modeling, sonar, and other sensors with autonomous and semi-autonomous platforms, archaeologists can now reach inaccessible sites, automate artifact analysis, and reconstruct fragmented remains with greater precision. The study provides a systematic overview of underwater, aerial, terrestrial, and other robotic systems, drawing on scientific literature that showcases their innovative use in both fieldwork and museum settings. Selected examples illustrate how robotics is being applied to solve key archaeological challenges in new and effective ways. While the paper emphasizes the potential of these technologies, it also addresses their technical, economic, and ethical limitations, concluding that successful adoption depends on interdisciplinary collaboration, careful implementation, and a balanced respect for cultural integrity. Full article

Artificial intelligence technologies, particularly machine learning and computer vision, are being increasingly utilized to preserve, restore, and create immersive virtual experiences with cultural artifacts and sites, thus aiding in conserving cultural heritage and making it accessible to a global audience. This paper examines the performance of Generative Adversarial Networks (GAN), especially Style-Based Generator Architecture (StyleGAN), as a deep learning approach for producing realistic images of Egyptian monuments. We used Sigmoid loss for Language–Image Pre-training (SigLIP) as a unique image–text alignment system to guide monument generation through semantic elements. We also studied truncation methods to regulate the generated image noise and identify the most effective parameter settings based on architectural representation versus diverse output creation. An improved discriminator design that combined noise addition with squeeze-and-excitation blocks and a modified MinibatchStdLayer produced 27.5% better Fréchet Inception Distance performance than the original discriminator models. Moreover, differential evolution for latent-space optimization reduced alignment mistakes during specific monument construction tasks by about 15%. We checked a wide range of truncation values from 0.1 to 1.0 and found that somewhere between 0.4 and 0.7 was the best range because it allowed for good accuracy while retaining many different architectural elements. Our findings indicate that specific model optimization strategies produce superior outcomes by creating better-quality and historically correct representations of diverse Egyptian monuments. Thus, the developed technology may be instrumental in generating educational and archaeological visualization assets while adding virtual tourism capabilities. Full article

Recent archaeological discoveries across the Aegean, Cyprus, and western Anatolia have renewed interest in pre-Neolithic seafaring and early island colonization. However, the environmental contexts that support such early coastal occupations remain poorly understood, largely due to the submergence of Pleistocene shorelines following post-glacial sea-level rise. This study addresses this gap through an integrated geoarchaeological investigation of the pre-Neolithic site of Ouriakos on Lemnos Island, northeastern Aegean (Greece), dated to the mid-11th millennium BCE. By reconstructing both the terrestrial and submerged paleolandscapes of the site, we examine ecological conditions, resource availability, and sedimentary processes that shaped human activity and site preservation. Employing a multiscale methodological approach—combining bathymetric survey, geomorphological mapping, soil micromorphology, geochemical analysis, and Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL) dating—we present a comprehensive framework for identifying and interpreting early coastal settlements. Stratigraphic evidence reveals phases of fluvial, aeolian, and colluvial deposition associated with an alternating coastline. The core findings reveal that Ouriakos was established during a phase of environmental stability marked by paleosol development, indicating sustained human presence. By bridging terrestrial and marine data, this research contributes significantly to the understanding of human coastal mobility during the Pleistocene–Holocene transition. Full article

This paper presents a conceptual and methodological framework for using Geographical Information Systems (GIS) to “deep map” cultural heritage sites along Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way, with a focus on the 1588 Spanish Armada wrecks in County Kerry and archaeological landscapes in County Sligo’s “Yeats Country.” Drawing on interdisciplinary dialogues from the humanities, social sciences, and geospatial sciences, it illustrates how digital spatial technologies can excavate, preserve, and sustain intangible cultural knowledge embedded within such palimpsestic landscapes. Using MAXQDA 24 software to mine and code historical, literary, folkloric, and environmental texts, the study constructed bespoke GIS attribute tables and visualizations integrated with elevation models and open-source archaeological data. The result is a richly layered cartographic method that reveals the spectral and affective dimensions of heritage landscapes through climate, memory, literature, and spatial storytelling. By engaging with “deep mapping” and theories such as “Spectral Geography,” the research offers new avenues for sustainable heritage conservation, cultural tourism, and public education that are sensitive to both ecological and cultural resilience in the West of Ireland. Full article

This review paper presents a comprehensive overview of DNA preservation in hard tissues (bones and teeth) for applications in forensic and archaeogenetic analyses. It presents bone structure, DNA location in bones and teeth, and extensive information about postmortem DNA location and preservation. Aged bones are a challenging biological material for DNA isolation due to their low DNA content, degraded DNA, and the potential presence of PCR inhibitors. In addition, the binding of DNA to the mineral matrix necessitates the inclusion of a demineralization process in extraction, and its contribution to the resulting increase in both DNA quality and quantity is explained. Guidelines and recommendations on bone sample selection to obtain higher DNA yields are discussed in terms of past, recent, and possible future recommendations. Interskeletal and intraskeletal differences in DNA yield are also explained. Recent studies have shown that current recommendations for the genetic identification of skeletal remains, including femurs, tibias, and teeth, may not be the most effective sampling approach. Moreover, when mass disasters and mass graves with commingled skeletal remains are considered, there is a greater possibility that the recommended set of skeletal elements will not be available for sampling and subsequent genetic testing. This review highlights interskeletal and intraskeletal variability in DNA yield, with a focus on studies conducted on poorly preserved skeletal remains, including both postwar (1945) victims from Slovenia and ancient human skeletons. Special emphasis is placed on anatomical differences and potential mechanisms influencing DNA preservation, as demonstrated in research on both modern and historical skeletons. Finally, the petrous part of the temporal bone and tooth cementum were reviewed in greater detail because they have been recognized as an optimal sampling type in both ancient DNA studies and routine forensic case analyses. Our experiences with the Second World War and archaeological petrous bones are discussed and compared to those of other bone types. Full article

This study presents a critical evaluation of image-based 3D reconstruction techniques for small archaeological artifacts, focusing on a quantitative comparison between Neural Radiance Fields (NeRF), its recent Gaussian Splatting (GS) variant, and traditional Structure-from-Motion (SfM) photogrammetry. The research targets artifacts smaller than 5 cm, characterized by complex geometries and reflective surfaces that pose challenges for conventional recording methods. To address the limitations of traditional methods without resorting to the high costs associated with laser scanning, this study explores NeRF and GS as cost-effective and efficient alternatives. A comprehensive experimental framework was established, incorporating ground-truth data obtained using a metrological articulated arm and a rigorous quantitative evaluation based on root mean square (RMS) error, Chamfer distance, and point cloud density. The results indicate that while NeRF outperforms GS in terms of geometric fidelity, both techniques still exhibit lower accuracy compared to SfM, particularly in preserving fine geometric details. Nonetheless, NeRF demonstrates strong potential for rapid, high-quality 3D documentation suitable for visualization and dissemination purposes in cultural heritage. These findings highlight both the current capabilities and limitations of neural rendering techniques for archaeological documentation and suggest promising future research directions combining AI-based models with traditional photogrammetric pipelines. Full article

The possibility of collecting new archaeological elements useful in reconstructing the dynamics of population, production and commercial activities in the Bronze Age at the edge of the central-southern Venice Lagoon was provided between 2023 and 2024 thanks to an intervention of rescue archaeology planned during some water restoration works in the Giare–Mira area. Three small excavations revealed, approximately one meter below the current surface and covered by alluvial sediments, a rather complex palimpsest dated to the late Recent and the early Final Bronze Age. Three large circular pits containing exclusively purified grey/blue clay and very rare inclusions of vegetable fibres, and many large, fired clay vessels’ bases, walls and rims clustered in concentrated assemblages and random deposits point to potential on-site production. Two pyro-technological structures, one characterised by a sub-circular combustion chamber and a long inlet channel/praefurnium, and the second one with a sub-rectangular shape with arched niches along its southern side, complete the exceptional context here discovered. To analyse the relationship between the site and the natural sedimentary succession and to evaluate the possible extension of this site, three electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and low-frequency electromagnetic (FDEM) measurements were collected. Several manual core drillings associated with remote sensing integrated the geophysical data in the analysis of the geomorphological evolution of this area, clearly related to different phases of fluvial activity, in a framework of continuous relative sea level rise. The typology and chronology of the archaeological structures and materials, currently undergoing further analyses, support the interpretation of the site as a late Recent/early Final Bronze Age productive site. Geophysical and geomorphological data provide information on the palaeoenvironmental setting, suggesting that the site was located on a fine-grained, stable alluvial plain at a distance of a few kilometres from the lagoon shore to the south-east and the course of the Brenta River to the north. The archaeological site was buried by fine-grained floodplain deposits attributed to the Brenta River. The good preservation of the archaeological structures buried by fluvial sediments suggests that the site was abandoned soon before sedimentation started. Full article

The Xixia Imperial Tombs (XITs) represent a crucial, yet still largely mysterious, component of the Tangut civilization’s legacy. Located in northwestern China, this extensive necropolis offers invaluable insights into the Tangut state, culture, and burial practices. This study employs an integrated approach utilizing multi-resolution and multi-temporal satellite remote sensing data, including Gaofen-2 (GF-2), Landsat-8 OLI, declassified GAMBIT imagery, and Google Earth, combined with deep learning techniques, to conduct a comprehensive archaeological investigation of the XITs’ burial landscape. We performed geomorphological analysis of the surrounding environment and automated identification and mapping of burial mounds and mausoleum features using YOLOv5, complemented by manual interpretation of very-high-resolution (VHR) satellite imagery. Spectral indices and image fusion techniques were applied to enhance the detection of archaeological features. Our findings demonstrated the efficacy of this combined methodology for archaeology prospect, providing valuable insights into the spatial layout, geomantic considerations, and preservation status of the XITs. Notably, the analysis of declassified GAMBIT imagery facilitated the identification of a suspected true location for the ninth imperial tomb (M9), a significant contribution to understanding Xixia history through remote sensing archaeology. This research provides a replicable framework for the detection and preservation of archaeological sites using readily available satellite data, underscoring the power of advanced remote sensing and machine learning in heritage studies. Full article

The rapid neutron-capture process (r-process) is responsible for the creation of roughly half of the elements heavier than iron, including precious metals like silver, gold, and platinum, as well as radioactive elements such as thorium and uranium. Despite its importance, the nature of the astrophysical sites where the r-process occurs, and the detailed mechanisms of its formation, remain elusive. The key to resolving these mysteries lies in the study of chemical signatures preserved in ancient, metal-poor stars. These stars, which formed in the early Universe, retain the chemical fingerprints of early nucleosynthetic events and offer a unique opportunity to trace the origins of r-process elements in the early Galaxy. In this review, we explore the state-of-the-art understanding of r-process nucleosynthesis, focusing on the sites, progenitors, and formation mechanisms. We discuss the role of potential astrophysical sites such as neutron star mergers, core-collapse supernovae, magneto-rotational supernovae, and collapsars, that can play a key role in producing the heavy elements. We also highlight the importance of studying these signatures through high-resolution spectroscopic surveys, stellar archaeology, and multi-messenger astronomy. Recent advancements, such as the gravitational wave event GW170817 and detection of the r-process in the ejecta of its associated kilonovae, have established neutron star mergers as one of the confirmed sites. However, questions remain regarding whether they are the only sites that could have contributed in early epochs or if additional sources are needed to explain the signatures of r-process found in the oldest stars. Additionally, there are strong indications pointing towards additional sources of r-process-rich nuclei in the context of Galactic evolutionary timescales. These are several of the outstanding questions that led to the formation of collaborative efforts such as the R-Process Alliance, which aims to consolidate observational data, modeling techniques, and theoretical frameworks to derive better constraints on deciphering the astrophysical sites and timescales of r-process enrichment in the Galaxy. This review summarizes what has been learned so far, the challenges that remain, and the exciting prospects for future discoveries. The increasing synergy between observational facilities, computational models, and large-scale surveys is poised to transform our understanding of r-process nucleosynthesis in the coming years. Full article

The last decade has seen a transformative advancement in computational technologies, enabling the precise creation, evaluation, visualization, and reproduction of high-fidelity three-dimensional (3D) models of archaeological sites and artefacts. With the advent of 3D printing, both small- and large-scale objects can now be reproduced with remarkable accuracy and at customizable scales. Artefacts composed of organic materials—such as wood—are inherently susceptible to biological degradation and thus require extensive, long-term conservation employing costly methodologies. These procedures often raise environmental concerns and lead to irreversible alterations in the wood’s chemical composition, dimensional properties, and the intangible essence of the original artefact. In the context of public education and the dissemination of knowledge about historical technologies and objects, 3D replicas can effectively fulfill the same purpose as original artefacts, without compromising interpretative value or cultural significance. Furthermore, the digital data embedded in 3D surface and object models provides a wealth of supplementary information that cannot be captured, preserved, or documented through conventional techniques. Waterlogged wooden objects can now be thoroughly documented in 3D, enabling ongoing, non-invasive scientific analysis. Given these capabilities, it is imperative to revisit the philosophical and ethical foundations of preserving waterlogged wood and to adopt innovative strategies for the conservation and presentation of wooden artefacts. These new paradigms can serve educational, research, and outreach purposes—core functions of contemporary museums. Full article

Authenticity is a core principle in conservation guidelines and a key goal of heritage preservation, especially in Serbia, where many aging objects face ongoing deterioration. The subject of this study is the church within the Blagoveštenje Monastery complex in the Ovčar-Kablar gorge, built using stone from a local quarry at the beginning of the 17th century. The inclination of the structure, observed as progressively increasing over the centuries, raises important concerns regarding its stability. This research focuses on identifying the underlying causes of this phenomenon in order to support its long-term preservation. The methods used the study are long-term in situ observations including analysis, geodetic research, 3D laser imaging, geophysical, geological, archaeological research, evaluation of current condition, determination of structural failures and their cause and monitoring the structural behavior of elements. All methods were carried out in accordance with the definition of rehabilitation measures and the protection of masonry buildings. The main contribution of this study is identifying that the church’s inclination and deviation result from the northern foundation resting on weaker soil and a deeper rock mass compared to the southern side. The research approach and findings presented in this paper can serve as a guide for future endeavors aimed at identifying the causes of deformations and the restoration and structural rehabilitation of masonry buildings as cultural heritage. Full article

In the 19th century, the British archaeologist Sir Alexander Cunningham identified the remains of an unidentified Buddhist monastery at Jamāl Gaṛhī, an ancient site located approximately 13 km from present-day Mardān, Pakistan. Subsequent excavations by the Archaeological Survey of India between 1920 and 1921 unearthed a schist inscription dated to the year “359”. Heinrich Lüders, the renowned German Indologist and epigraphist, attributed this inscription to the Dharmaguptaka sect/school. Despite this early attribution, the Monastery’s precise sectarian characteristics have remained largely unexplored in later scholarship. This article reevaluates the site’s sectarian identity by employing a “ground-to-text” methodology that integrates archaeological evidence with textual analysis, with a particular focus on the Chinese translation of the Dharmaguptaka Vinaya. Through this comparative framework, this study seeks to elucidate the religious ideas reflected in the site’s material culture and their relationship with Dharmaguptaka disciplinary thought. The analysis encompasses the architectural remnants of the stūpa excavated by Cunningham and the “Fasting Buddha” statuary, now preserved in the National Museum of Pakistan, the British Museum, and other sites, situating these artifacts within the distinctive visual and contemplative traditions linked to the Dharmaguptaka Vinaya. By integrating architectural, sculptural, textual, and epigraphic materials, this article provides a nuanced understanding of sectarian developments at Jamāl Gaṛhī and argues that an explicit emphasis on the ‘Middle Way’ ideology constituted a defining feature of the Dharmaguptaka tradition during this period. 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

A relatively new GelSight Max measurement instrument was applied to the microtopographies of experimental hardened clay surfaces, both with and without fingerprint (dermatoglyph) impressions, and the surface of an archaeological pottery handle fragment with a preserved fingerprint (paleodermatoglyph). The experimental clay surfaces were documented in order to determine the instrument’s ability to capture these surfaces in three-dimensions by imprinting them onto an elastomeric tactile membrane. Fingerprints on the experimental hardened clay and the archaeological pottery fragment were mathematically documented to test this instrument’s ability to capture these impressions. The surface texture measurements of the hardened clay and the pottery fragment were mathematically compared using conventional topographic characterization parameters (height and hybrid), fractal dimensions (Das) with associated coefficients of determination (R²), and multiscalar geometric characterization parameters, particularly relative area (Srel), area-scale complexity (Asfc), relative length (RL), and length-scale complexity (Lsfc). The surfaces of the experimental hardened clay with and without fingerprints and the archaeological pottery handle fragment with a fingerprint can be discriminated using some conventional height parameters, as well as some multiscale geometric topographic characterization parameters. Specifically, relative area (Srel), area-scale complexity (Asfc), relative length (RL), and length-scale complexity (Lsfc) could all discriminate between the hardened clay block with and without fingerprints and the fingerprint on the archaeological pottery handle fragment at different scales of measurement. Mean square ratios (MSRs) above 90% and 95% confidence levels indicated that the discrimination of these multiscale geometric characterizations was significant. In sum, the GelSight Max has the potential to be a valuable instrument for archaeologists studying pottery and fingerprints. Full article

The Lower Paleolithic site of Loreto (Venosa Basin, Basilicata, Southern Italy), discovered in 1929 and excavated from 1956 to 1961 and from 1974 to 1981, consists of three main archaeological layers showing evidence of human occupation. The bottom layer (Layer A) is the richest and best-preserved layer, and its lithic industry includes flakes, retouched flakes, cores, and pebble tools mainly made of chert and limestone. This study involves the petrographic and morphometric analysis of about 400 artifacts. A comparison with the geological clasts of Layer B of the archaeological site of Notarchirico (Venosa), as well as geological samples from the outer tectonic units of the Southern Apennines chain available in the SiLiBA lithotheque and analyzed with the same methodological approach, provided not only the identification of the lithotypes and their source formations but also allowed for insights into technological behavior and human–environment interaction. Full article