Search

Satellite photographs, such as the CORONA series, are proving valuable instruments of archaeological reconnaissance, especially for landscapes that are relatively unknown or unprotected. Moreover, satellite imagery can be used for detailed mapping of remote areas, so that a topographic map or Digital Elevation Model can form the background for the archaeological information. However, images seen on the photographs may not be immediately recognisable as sites, and sites on the ground may escape detection from a satellite. In a current project in south Siberia the authors test the visibility of the one against the other Keywords: CORONA satellite imagery, archaeological survey methods, mapping, DEM, Scytho-Siberian period, Introduction The Altai Republic, part of the Russian Federation, is situated in Central Asia at the meeting point of four countries: Mongolia, China, Kazakhstan and the Russian Federation itself (see [...]

Recently a cremation cemetery was excavated at the site of Wijnegem where 29 cremation graves and 9 funerary monuments were uncovered. Thirty radiocarbon (14C) dates were carried out, mostly on cremated bone but also 10 charcoal samples were dated. Twenty-four cremations were studied. Four ring ditches were dated by charcoal samples from the infill of the ditch. The 14C dates showed an interesting long-term occupation of the cemetery. Different phases were ascertained. The history of the cemetery starts in the northern part of the site around a circular funerary monument. Two cremations were dated at the transition of the Early to Middle Bronze Ages. Two other graves represent the transition from the Middle to the Late Bronze Ages. The main occupation period dates between the end of the Late Bronze Age and the Early Iron Age. Finally, an isolated cremation grave marks the definite abandonment of the site during the Late Iron Age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Provides an overview of the archaeological research on Scytho-Siberian kurgans in the Altai Republic from 1995 to 1998. Geographical description of the Kalanegir valley; Typology of the archaeological structures; Analysis of the images and carved surfaces.