This book presents the integrated use of magnetometry and ground-penetrating radar geophysical
mapping to understand the human presence within buried archaeological landscapes.
Ground-penetrating radar can be used to identify buried living surfaces geological
stratigraphy and the architectural remains of sites in three-dimensions. Magnetometry can
produce images denoting differences on the composition of those materials both anthropogenic
and natural but with more limited three-dimensional resolution. The integration of the two has
a unique ability to resolve and interpret these buried materials differentiated between the
human-caused and natural layers and place all buried features within historic landscapes. The
final product of geophysical integration along with some limited subsurface testing produces
a holistic analysis of human adaptations to and modifications of the ancient landscape.
Examples are shown from sites in Roman Croatia and Britain Medieval Ireland Colonial
Connecticut and an Archaic site in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. These examples from very
different environments time periods and cultural groups illustrate how the integrated
geophysical methodology can interpret on a scale approaching many hectares the ancient
landscapes within which people lived.
