GIS for Archaeology and CRM

“Uncovering progress in FOSS-based archaeology“, by M. Fioretti, in the title of an article published the other week in the trends section of NewsForge, the online newspaper for Linux and Opensource. If you are out of the know, like myself, FOSS is an acronym for “Free and Opensource Software”

As detailed by the author, archaeologists, with our large quantities of data, mapping needs, and repetitive analysis, are well suite for computer applications, but often, this usage does not extend beyond fancy PowerPoint slides. Community based, open and accessible software, as a model, is finely tuned to the needs of low budget institutions that desire to apply archaeology’s fundamental quantitative methods and replicate the analysis of others.

“Archaeological research is based on replicating and analyzing what others have done. That requires unrestricted access to both data and algorithms used to generate or process them — a philosophy that plays well with free software.”

As the author continues, they describe a few FOSS software packages that work well with the data and analysis requirements of archaeology. Software such as BRL-CAD and SAGA-GIS are mentioned, as well as, ArcheOS; which has been covered on GIS for Archaeology. Citing a presentation from the Arc-Team, at the GRASS UC in Genova 2006, Fioretti links to a presentation [pdf] and details the use of the Voxel graphic technique using GRASS and Paraview. This method gives the archaeologist the ability to recreate an excavated context and analyze specific attributes based on a 3D model. This is a very cool technique!

Discussion
The author hits the nail on the head by stating that “the biggest obstacle to open archaeology is data, rather than software.” As discussed here and elsewhere, archaeological data is extremely guarded by many researchers as well as government and private entities. In many states, there are very strict laws about how archaeological data can be displayed and distributed. As contract archaeologists, we are unable to share our data without the express permission of those who pay us to gather it. Even beyond that, once the data is submitted to the State Historic Preservation Office, the state laws take effect. Replicating complex analysis based on the available legal means of displaying, sharing, and transiting data rarely works. Most of the published information that archaeologists use to build their models has to be taken at face value because validating underlying data and methods is usually impossible For reasons such as this, archaeological literature is full of legacy errors that will never be overcome. Okay, I may be going a bit off topic here, but the point is, data availability is the gorilla in the room. Suggested by Fioretti, license agreements such as Creative of Science Commons could foster a more open archaeological data community, but a true fix requires much larger efforts. In the US, this would mean changing laws state by state and convincing archaeologists that sharing data within the community is a good thing.

This was a very refreshing article. The author is very astute in their understanding and description of the problems with the adoption of more open data sharing and computer techniques within the field. Further, the article provides a number of links to FOSS and archaeological software and products which may be of interest.

With the major tenants of the issue outlined, this article encourages the reader to think about how current movements in the FOSS community can be translated to the unique requirements of archaeological data. The gears of change are in motion.

Sorry for the lack of posts over the 4th of July Holiday. My favorite fishing spot does not have Wi-Fi

Back to the posting…

This is the title of a recent thread on the Online Archaeology forum that has drawn a great response with some interesting observations.

The Discussion

The thread started innocently enough with a few folks asking about applications of GIS in archaeology, if it is valued, and whether it is worth while to take a class in it. As with the Online Archaeology site, many of the responses and view points here are from the UK.

Initially, many responses stated that they have used of heard of GIS in archaeology here and there, but overall it was too expensive. User AntArch, came to the table with the first informative response clearing the air of some misconceptions and describing more the essence of GIS, how it can be used in archaeology. Citing the lack of university training, lack of exemplar data sets available, and resistance from the contract/professional units due to time and cost, AntArch ultimately agreed that, yes, GIS is undervalued in archaeology.

A number or responses back and forth generally agreed that GIS is a very powerful tool for the archaeological tool chest, but often unused because of the real or perceived notion that is is too expensive, there is a lack of trained users and a confusion about what the “GIS” is and what it can do. To me the latter seems like a major reoccurring theme.

Then the discussion got very interesting! From the pleasant banter of general agreement, user “Snooks” words cracked like thunder (that may be a bit dramatic, but…)

“I am in a key IT position in one of the major contractors in the UK… I can tell you I have not seen GIS used in commercial archaeology. Too expensive and too time consuming…We want jobs to come in fast and reports to go out fast. No time/money to waste on GIS analysis.”

Well, that was one hell of a statement. AntArch followed this is a well crafted response expressing dismay for Snooks point of view and arguing the basics of what contract archaeology is all about. Not that this is the topic of the discussion, but Snooks obviously brought it into play with his/her statement. Snooks and AntArch had it our back and forth, with Snooks taking the business is business hard line. Snooks goes so far as to say that commercial archaeologists fain a desire to be academics, but we “inherently” cannot because of our pursuit for the almighty buck (or 0.781933 euro). After a few volleys, Snooks conceded that ideally, collecting “GIS data” is the proper and ethical thing for archaeologists to do, but in this business climate, it won’t fly, so don’t bother getting training because it won’t get you a job. I’m glad no body told me that when I was in school!

The responses that followed were all in support of AntArch’s pro-GIS position. Mostly stating that they too work for a commercial company using GIS practices on nearly all projects. Further, these responses addressed the common gripe of too much money and time and encouraged students to take a look into GIS as an addition to their studies.

The Conclusion

Although Snooks dollar-first-archaeology-later attitude was abhorrent within the forum, it certainly opens a can of worms that is right for the picking. When GIS techniques and practice is so evidently useful to archaeologists, what is the barrier that keeps it from common acceptance. As shown, time/money is the most often cited reason, but is it more of a contract vs. academic problem, or is it just a lack of understanding of what a GIS point of view is capable of?

It seems to me that the misunderstanding of what “GIS” actually IS causes a rift which trickles down to create the subsequent issues. Surely, I am no GIS prophet who claims to “get it”, but I have dealt with GIS and Archaeology enough to see the bigger picture. Within the forum discussion, the term “GIS” is often batted around as a commodity; a thing you have or do not have, GIS either is or is not. Of course, GIS is not a singular thing, rather a collection of things composed into a system that has objects and properties. The classic analogy is GIS as a toolbox. Tools can be used in different ways to solve different problems. To know how to address an issue, you need to know your tools. GIS is endlessly scalable. GIS tools can be used in an archaeological project from the level of visualizing GPS points, a quick aerial/satellite overlay, or complex model building and analysis.

Within the forum, the “too expensive” argument for GIS is put in it’s place by suggesting the numerous open source / freely licensed GIS programs (See a recent post by Mapz the GIS librarian). As far as the “too expensive” argument applied to training personnel, I am sure one could find a GIS knowledgeable intern or entry level archaeologist for a low price. I was one of those for a number of years and I know there are plenty more out there. The computer skills needed to learn your way around a GIS are not for beyond the basic skills most college kids already have. I would stress that a back ground in Geography and GIS theory is as important, if not more so than computer skills, but getting your foot in the GIS/Archaeology door does not have to be costly.

The discussion on the Online Archaeology Forum is a very important discussion for Archaeology and a whole. The replies give good insight into the level that GIS has permeated archaeology and has become (or not become) an accepted tool. The topics raised by the simple title “GIS; Undervalued in Archaeology?” go far and wide beyond the use of GIS in archaeology. I hope this discussion develops as time goes on.

As part of the UK Archaeology Map, the folks at Online Archaeology have made available their catalog of United Kingdom archaeology data in KML format. Each of the layers represented on their map application, from World War era gun placements to 3rd century Roman Villas. In total, there are 287 Military sites identified and 278 Roman Villas. Also available on the UK Map catalog page are RSS links to each layers, an option to view it on their mapping application, and a link to a list of selected sources for further reading.

Deserving of a post of its own, the UK Archaeology Map is a very cool project. Based off the Google Maps API, the UK Archaeology map is in continual development with tools for increased usability and added data. Check out the Online Archaeology Map blog to track it’s developments and pick up a few hints of how the creator solved some of his mapping tasks.

Further adding value to the Online Archaeology site is an RSS aggregator for a number of archaeology and technology/archaeology news feeds. The interface is pretty slick, but it seems to be missing one super important GIS/Archaeology blog Online Archaeology’s section on “IT Archaeology” offers a bit of information on GIS and there is tons of other info to be found with some wondering around.

I am not really sure who is behind Online Archaeology, but it is a great project. The UK Archaeology Map they have created is a fine use of the Google Maps API combined with some added features for usability. The data presented is interesting and quite extensive (as far as archaeological sites published on the web goes). Take a few minutes and check it out!

ArcheOS Akhenaton, an archaeologist tailored GNU/Linux operating system released a new version (1.1.6) today. You know you’ve made it when your field gets its own Linux Distro!

ArcheOS, billed as “The first GNU-Linux distribution for archaeology”, is a PCLinuxOS based released under the General Public License (GPL). Created by the Arc-Team, a 5 archaeologist/craftsman group from the Universities of Padua and Vienna, ArcheOS is a collection of opensource and freely licensed applications that fit well with what archaeologists need to do.

A table of the software follows: (red indicates new to version 1.1.6)

The provided software covers a wide breadth of functionality. Though probably not complete for some users, this distribution is a great starting point for someone wanting to cut the software budget and get down to work. I have only dabbled in the world of GNU/Linux distributions; I wish I had more opportunity. If I do get the chance to dust off an old laptop and mess with Linux, this will definitely be my first project.

“EarthWorks“, a travelling exhibit that opened on June 20th at the Cincinnati Museum Center, Ohio, is a multimedia spectacle with an amazing centerpiece consisting of an immersing 3D journey through reconstructions of Native American “mound builder” villages and earthworks.

Technology of “EarthWorks” Exhibit
Beginning in the late 1990’s, John Hancock, University of Cincinnati professor of architecture and team member in the Center for the Electronic Reconstruction of Historical and Archaeological Sites (CERHAS) at the university, began to build interactive user environments set within reconstructed heritage sites. Simulations such as this, although popular at the time, were too large and unstructured, lacking feedback for the user and usually had over complex controls.

Noting the lack of usability, Dr. Hancock and the CERHAS team developed and new form of interaction consisting of an exploratory virtual reality framework, mixed multi-media presentations, and defined documentary narratives. Together, the mixture of media and documentation within an exploratory context create a “chose your own adventure” like experience where you learn and interact along a virtual path. The narrative and media experience has such a great depth that it is highlyT unlikely that a user could duplicate their previous path.

The end result of this “EarthWorks“ project is a 500 square foot traveling exhibit focused on the virtual reconstructions, but also including a very large map of the Ohio Valley area, a cross-cultural comparative time line, 3-D models of a series of earth works, and additional photos and narratives.
links to archaeology

A bit about the ancient Ohio Valley earth works

From around 600 BC to 1200 AD, the areas around Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana and West Virginia were home to populations of Native Americans that archaeologists refer to as Adena, Hopewell, and Fort Ancient. These groups, beginning with the Adena, built increasingly complexity earth mounds that began as circles and cones, evolved to complex geometric shapes, and ended with great animal effigies. The arrangement of geometric shapes and animal effigies, some reaching 15 feet high and thousands of feet in length, constitute some of the earliest ancient observatories in the world.

Although many have been lost to time, some earth works have remained intact. One of the most striking examples in Serpent Mound in Adams County, Ohio. This mound is a 1,300 foot long, three feet high effigy of a snake. Another extant mound structure is the great Fort Ancient hill top enclosure in Fort Ancient, Ohio. Enclosing 100 acres, the hill top earthworks is formed by a 3 mile long wall enclosure that is as high as 23 feet in some sections. Both examples are central to the EarthWorks exhibit.

The fact that Dr. Hancock, who taught ancient architecture for 15 years, was unaware of the massive 2000 year old earthworks practically under his feet, underscores the point that most people do not know that natives of North America created large earthworks. Although the construction technology of these celestial observatories and religious sites is primitive, as compared to the Inca and Egyptians, the cultural structure and depth of knowledge that is needed to create them is just as advanced.

An EarthWorks project and resources CD Avaliable from CERHAS for $25.
The EarthWorks tour schedule includes the following date:

• Cincinnati Museum Center, with opening on June 20, 2006
• Ohio Historical Center, Columbus, where the exhibit will open Sept. 30, 2006
• Cleveland Museum of Natural History in 2007
• The Field Museum, Chicago, (as part of a permanent exhibit) in spring 2007
• Sunwatch Indian Village/Archaeological Park, Dayton, Ohio, set to open May 26, 2007

Mapz the GIS Librarian posted an great list of freely available GIS software.  Setting this list apart, is the classification of software into use categories and Mapz annotations.  Outlined is a pretty complete suite of applications that can be used to address many spatial problems.

Having read a survey a few years back regarding archaeologists use of GIS, one of the main issues with integration was cost.  As with many opensource and free licenses projects mentioned on this blog, Mapz list of applications offer a high quality work around for having a slim GIS budget.  Most of these programs are user friendly in both form and function.

Good stuff Mapz!  As mentioned in the post, you can also check out Freegis.org and the Very Spatial Free GIS list.

Directed by Marc Waelkens, of the Catholic University of Leuven, Belgium, the dig at Sagalassos (wiki link) is a large-scale interdisciplinary excavation which began in 1990. Located in Southwest Turkey, Sagalassos is a very well preserved ancient city that has a history dating back to it’s growth before the conquest of Alexander the Great in 333 BC, to its transfer to king Amyntas in 25 BC, up to it’s final abandonment due to earthquakes and failing economy in the 7th century AD.

Featured as an “Interactive Dig” on Archaeology.org, the Sagalassos excavation is a fantastic example on using technology and well written text to bring archaeological digs, findings, and experiences to a wide audience. As part of the offerings at the Sagalassos, they have added a new KMZ network link to a Google Earth file documenting many aspects of the extensive excavation

KMZ of Sagalassos Archaeology
(link)

The Sagalassos KMZ file contains information about archaeological and architectural features, panoramic VR photo tours, overlain archaeology and geophysical maps, and links to field notes from throughout the project. In all, the Sagalassos KMZ contains a ton of interesting and informative media and links.

On first look, the KML displays an archaeological base map of the site and great custom “dig site” icons linked to multiple VR panoramas (which loads in a separate browser window), a photo, and often extensive field notes. Viewing the panoramas, from which you can zoom and pan, you get an incredible sense of what it looks like on site. Also, zoom out in Google Earth and tilt/pan with the terrain on. The landscape of the site, in the Taurus mountains, is very impressive.

In the Northeast area of the Sagalassos project, there is a georeferenced image of the composite geophysical survey findings. By turning off the top most map overlay and adjusting the transparency of the geophysical overlay, you can get a great appreciation for how complex the subsurface archaeology is at Sagalassos. As an armchair geophysicist, you can see detailed subsurface structures directly to the East of the Theater and about 30 meters to the West and Southwest. It looks like the dig team will have plenty more to work on in future seasons.

The links to the field notes bring you to the archaeology.org virtual dig page which includes field notes as well as pictures and some technical drawings of structures from that portion of the site. Heading back to the main page of the Sagalassos interactive dig, you can also find a journal of daily life around the dig site. These are interesting journal entries about the non-archaeological side of spending days in the field.

The archaeology.org interactive dig site gives the reader a load of great info about the site, the archaeology, and the team, but the inclusion of the Google Earth KMZ brings it all together. The place based presentation of the archaeology offer us a context to frame the data and experiences of the project. Further, users can now explore the site on their own via the map and panoramas and even find unexcavated archaeology by interpreting the geophysical results. Providing visual media such as this to a wide audience of specialists and non-specialists, and everyone in between, will certainly draw more attention to the importance of archaeology and allow viewers to share some of the same adventure and excitement as the archaeologists.

From Space Imagery, a provider of space and aerial remotely sensed images, comes a fun Flash map application which maps 13 of the world’s Ancient Observatories.

From Abu Simbel (wiki link) in Egypt to Uxmal (wiki link) in Mexico, the Ancient Observatories map application displays a zoomable/pannable high resolution images of a particular observatory accompanied by a text description of the sites history and significance. The images can be downloaded and are linked to their metadata source.
The logic of this application brings full circle some pretty interesting ideas about ancient and modern technology. Do you think we can learn more about ancient observatories from studying them from the celestial point of view. Perhaps my fascination is simply coming from the “Who’s watching the deceive” feeling of this application. Either way, it’s very cool and well worth a look.

Although my blog “GIS for Archaeology” was not mentioned in the new GIS Monitor article, “GIS in Archaeology” I will be the better person and post about it anyway.

Pointed out by SlashGeo, the current issue of the GIS Monitor has an article focusing on the use of GIS in Archaeology. Stating that Archaeology is a perfect fit for the use of GIS, the article points out that Archaeology is the only humanity field to embrace GIS to a large degree. The material for this article is derived from a talk with Dr. Caverlee S. Cary from the Geographic Information Science Center at the University of California at Berkley. Dr. Cary and the GIS center have worked with archaeologists in the past and offered comments on how they see archaeologists using GIS.

GIS and archaeology are a perfect match, according to Cary, because linking attribute information to locations on the Earth’s surface “is exactly what archaeologists need to do when they are documenting a site. The core of archaeology is that you know exactly where on or in the ground any given object that has been discovered came from.”

One application that the article focuses on is the use of remotely sensed images in archaeology. Describing how aerial and satellite imagery is used for finding new sites, mapping known sites, and evaluating environmental conditions, Dr. Cary states that this application is new to archaeology. Although she is correct in here assertion of uses, Remote Sensing in archaeology has been around for nearly as long as remote sensing itself. Aerial photos have been a main stay of archaeological data from the beginning, as well, Landsat and other remotely sensed data has been brought into our work flow for 20+ years. I do not dispute that Dr. Cary is fully aware of the history of RS in archaeology (She is co-author to a paper on this topic at Berkley this week), but I want to give my readers an impression of the depth to its use.

My 2 cents

As suggested in my post on the Integration of GIS in Archaeology, Archaeologists have used GIS technology and techniques for quite some time. A single example would be the Computer Application and Quantitative Methods in Archaeology conferences that have been held since 1973. GIS like methods appeared in this conference in the early years and by the Early 90’s, it had become a stand alone topic.

In my job, we use GIS for many tasks from the management of historic resources, to sensitivity analysis, landscape modeling, 3D visualization, general cartography, scenario testing, and many more. Archaeology is a spatial discipline. We are taught from day one that once something is pulled out of the ground, it better be recorded well enough that in 100 years, someone can find that point on earth within a centimeter. Spatial accuracy is a hallmark of archaeology and a big reason why we jumped on the wagon so early. This is aside from the fact that we are nerdy bunch!

If anyone is interested to know more about he we use GIS in archaeology, give me a yell.

The Theban Necropolis (wikipedia), collectively, is an area on the West bank of the Nile, near modern Luxor, which is composed of the the Royal Necropolis, which is the Valley of the Kings and Valley of the Queens, Mortuary Temples, and the Tombs of the Nobles.

The Theban Necropolis Online GIS is an ESRI ArcIMS served database which contains a well attributed dataset for the Tombs of the Nobles section of the Necropolis. Not as fancy as the Theban Mapping project, which I posted here, the Theban Necropolis Online GIS serves a more research based agenda. The database is searchable on all fields and there are a number of tools to help navigate the multitude of mapped and attributed tombs.

Also, the recent imagery upgrade for Google Earth now provides high resolution aerials for the Thebes area (Google Earth ), not that the panchromatic base layer used by the online GIS is shabby.

If your interested in learning a bit more about the less publicized areas of this highly visited Egyptian site, take a tour with the Theban Necropolis online GIS. Also, check out the Theban Necropolis DB for additional data.