The Results of Non-Invasive Studies Carried out at the Early Iron Age Fortified Settlement in Chotyniec in South-Eastern Poland

Abstract

The article presents the results of non-invasive studies carried out within the fortified settlement of Chotyniec, in south-eastern Poland. This site is the central and most important part of the so-called Chotyniec agglomeration, associated with the Scythian cultural circle. It is the westernmost enclave of this culture, which can be considered crucial for the interpretation of the situation in the Early Iron Age. Geophysical prospection was performed using three measurement methods: magnetic, electromagnetic (EM) and ground-penetrating radar (GPR). The magnetometer and electromagnetic tests covered the entire defensive structure along with the nearest facilities, and the ground-penetrating radar was used in selected parts of the settlement. The obtained results have revealed uneven effectiveness in the detection of archaeological features and layers. They were additionally verified in selected areas by the use of archaeological excavations.