GEOARCHAEOLOGY

The Laboratory represents an introduction to the theory and method of geoarchaeology for post-graduate students in archaeology.

The students will be able to formulate basilar evaluations of the relationship between natural geomorphic processes and human activities in the formation and preservation of archaeological sites, as well as in the diachronic modification of archeological landscapes with particular focus on fluvial, coastal and slope environments.

The Laboratory is open to all students. Basics of archaeology and physical geography can help in the full comprehension of the different topics.

Case studies will be presented and discussed, with specific focus on methodological aspects. Main topics will regard: the definition and fields of application of geoarchaeology; geomorphological processes, palaeoenvironmental reconstruction and preservation potential of the archaeological record in alluvial, coastal and slope settings; soil formation and palaeopedology; description of sediments and soils; geomorphological and geological maps, digital terrain models and remote sensing for geoarchaeological landscape analysis.

M. Cremaschi, 2006. Manuale di geoarcheologia, Laterza.
P. Goldberg, R. I. Macphail, 2006. Practical and theoretical geoarchaeology, Blackwell.
Slides and scientific papers provided during classes.

Oral discussion on case studies.

Lectures; interpretation of geothematic and historical maps, stratigraphic sections, digital terrain models, aerial and satellite images.

Italian

oral

This subject deals with topics related to the macro-area "Cities, infrastructure and social capital" and contributes to the achievement of one or more goals of U. N. Agenda for Sustainable Development