Survey

Definition

In archaeology, a survey refers to a systematic examination of the landscape to identify and record archaeological sites, artifacts, and features. This method is crucial for understanding the distribution of human activities and settlements in relation to the environment and historical context, especially in the vast territories of the Roman Empire.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Surveys can be conducted using various methods, including pedestrian walking, aerial photography, and geophysical techniques, allowing archaeologists to gather data efficiently.
2. In the context of Roman archaeology, surveys help identify patterns of settlement, trade routes, and infrastructure like roads and aqueducts that are key to understanding Roman society.
3. Surveys can reveal previously unknown sites, leading to further exploration and excavation that enhances our understanding of ancient cultures.
4. Systematic surveys are essential for creating comprehensive archaeological maps that assist in planning conservation efforts and further research.
5. The information gathered from surveys often informs hypotheses about social organization, economic practices, and cultural interactions within the Roman Empire.

Review Questions

• How does a survey contribute to our understanding of Roman settlement patterns and infrastructure?
  • A survey allows archaeologists to systematically collect data about the locations and distributions of Roman settlements and their infrastructure. By mapping these sites, researchers can identify patterns related to trade routes, urban planning, and resource management. This contributes to a deeper understanding of how the Romans organized their society in relation to geography and economy.
• Discuss the various techniques employed in archaeological surveys and their significance in uncovering Roman artifacts.
  • Archaeological surveys employ techniques such as pedestrian walking surveys, aerial photography, and geophysical methods like ground-penetrating radar. These techniques are significant because they allow archaeologists to locate and document sites without extensive excavation. This non-invasive approach is particularly valuable in preserving cultural heritage while gathering essential data on Roman artifacts and settlements.
• Evaluate the role of surveys in shaping our knowledge of cultural interactions within the Roman Empire compared to excavation methods.
  • Surveys play a critical role in shaping our knowledge of cultural interactions within the Roman Empire by providing a broader context for understanding human activity across large landscapes. Unlike excavation methods that focus on specific sites, surveys offer insights into regional patterns of trade, migration, and cultural exchange. By integrating survey data with excavation findings, researchers can create a more comprehensive picture of how diverse cultures interacted under Roman influence.

Related terms

Site Recording: The process of documenting the details and findings of an archaeological site during or after excavation, including mapping, photography, and artifact cataloging.

Remote Sensing: A technique used to gather information about an area from a distance, often employing aerial photography or satellite imagery to detect archaeological features that are not visible at ground level.

Fieldwork: The practical aspect of archaeology involving the collection of data through methods like excavation, surveying, and site analysis in various environments.