Posts Tagged ‘Archaeology’
A Guide to Archaeological Digs
I have never met an archaeologist who carried a pistol (let alone a bull whip) while working in the field. In fact, just mentioning the name “Indiana Jones” usually elicits laughter from real archaeologists. Their profession is not an escapade or a game of chance; it’s a science that requires study and a lot of [Read More]
Archaeological Digs – Part 3: Closing the Site
What becomes of an archaeological dig after the digging is finished? Some are destined to become tourist attractions – we have seen a few of those – but that is only a small part of the story. While visiting at the archaeological research center, we discuss this subject with Jeffrey Soles of the University of [Read More]
Archaeological Digs – Part 2: Conserving the Past
In the previous installment (Archaeological Digs – Part 1), we told you how the ancient site at Priniatikos Pyrgos was excavated by archaeologists. In this report we consider what happens to things found during the dig. Unearthed items are studied to learn about the people and culture that created or used them. Afterward these objects [Read More]
Archaeological Digs – Part 1: Excavation
Regardless of what you might have read or seen in films, archaeology is not about adventures in search of ancient treasures. It is a methodical study of things left by past cultures and people. These “material remains” include artifacts (objects made, altered, or used by people); ecofacts (animal bones, plant remains, seeds); and features (buildings, [Read More]
Visit to a Small Town
On the Gulf of Mirabello, not far from Ayios Nikolaos, is a lesser known Minoan site that is really quite fascinating. Though it is relatively small, Gournia is a fine example of a Minoan town – and that is a rare thing. The more famous excavations on Crete – Knossos, Festos, Zakros and others – [Read More]
