Geoarchaeological Sites Research Articles

The Corraded Assemblage of the «Classic» Malta (Based on the Analysis of the Kunstkamera Collections)

The research revision of materials from the 1932 and 1934 collections of the world-famous geoarchaeological site Malta, stored in the Kunstkamera (St. Petersburg), was carried out in the spring of 2023. The purpose of the analysis was to identify lithic artifacts with marks of Aeolian corrasion as part of the study of the corraded industries of the Angara-Belsk geoarchaeological district of South Angara. As a results, 3 663 artifacts were examined, among them 71 corraded items were identified. The results present the corraded component of Malta's lithic industry practically does not differ from the «classical» cultural layers by technical, typological and petrographic features. But unique type of the point with ventral base thinning has no analogue in «classic» assemblage. And if previously these artifacts were interpreted in a regional context as cultural markers of the Initial Upper Paleolithic, now it is proposed to consider them as an element of the Gravett (?) technocomplex in Malta and one more proof of European-Siberian cultural link in author's opinion.

СУЧАСНИЙ ТА ДАВНІЙ РЕЛЬЄФ ГЕОАРХЕОЛОГІЧНОЇ ПАМ'ЯТКИ МЕЖИРІЧ

Background. Comprehensive geoarchaeological studies of prehistoric and historic human settlements involve analyzing all components of the ancient natural environment, including topography and landforming processes. However, insufficient attention to documenting these crucial characteristics, as well as arbitrary use of geomorphological terms, complicates their further interpretation. The research aims to revise existing geomorphological descriptions and paleogeomorphological reconstructions of the Mezhyrich geoarchaeological site, refining and detailing its position within the modern and ancient land surface structure. Methods. The research was conducted using cartographic methods and decoding materials from aerial photography. Additionally, a thorough bibliographic analysis of scientific publications related to paleogeographical reconstructions of the study area was carried out. Results. Discrepancies have been identified in precisely determining the geomorphological context of this site. The study delves into contentious issues surrounding various approaches to numbering the floodplain terraces. These debates stem from the use of different stratigraphic schemes for Ukraine's Quaternary deposits when dating alluvium. Additionally, the debate extends to criteria for terrace numbering. Through the analysis of satellite imagery, hypsometric and geomorphological diagrams, and other geological-geomorphological materials, the contemporary geomorphological situation has been refined, and the peculiarities of the ancient terrain have been unearthed. The role of morphostructural position, the spectrum of processes, and the dynamics of morpholithogenesis have been pinpointed. Conclusions. The conducted research substantiates the pivotal role of terrain in the selection and organization of safe living spaces for ancient humans. To address the issue of linking the Mezhyrich geoarchaeological site to the terrace level, the proposal is to number the terraces based on morphological features, thereby avoiding divergent interpretations of the ages of correlated deposits and discrepancies in terrace designations. Furthermore, there is potential for utilizing the geomorphological information from the investigated Late Paleolithic settlement as a search criterion for locating other ancient human settlements under similar physiogeographic and geological-structural conditions.

Geological and archeological heritage resources assessment of the Najran Province; towards the 2030 vision of Saudi Arabia

The nascent state of Saudi Arabia's tourism industry belies its potential to ascend to a prominent position as a global tourist destination. Najran is poised to become an emerging and promising tourist destination due to its cultural and historical significance, which is exemplified by a variety of historical sites. This study's primary objective is to demonstrate that geoscience, geoeducation, and geotourism can all benefit from geological heritage (geo-heritage). When selecting geotourism resources in the province of Najran, the visibility of geoheritage is a crucial factor to consider. Numerous geomorphological landscapes and geomorphosites have been discerned as focal points. This investigation employs Geographical Information System (GIS) methodology in conjunction with on-site field research in order to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the study region. The evaluation of potential geoarchaeological heritage resources significantly contributes to geoconservation and efficient management strategies. By categorizing the geoarchaeological sites in the study area, it was discovered that the region is rich in geodiversity, particularly in areas where archaeologically significant sites and valuable geological features coexist. A substantial body of geoheritage knowledge pertinent to the study area already exists, as the current research has yielded fundamental insights. However, it is evident that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia places a greater emphasis on other developmental initiatives, marginalizing the necessity of sustainable regional growth. It is concluded that the area's geoarchaeological heritage resources should play a role in the research agenda and sustainability plan. Therefore, additional research is required for the prudent and effective use of the available geoarchaeological heritage resources.

Hominid Alluvial Corridor (HAC) of the Guadalquivir and Guadaíra River Valleys (Southern Spain): Geoarchaeological Functionality of the Middle Paleolithic Assemblages during the Upper Pleistocene

This research addresses the geomorphological connectivity existing amid the piedmont’s karstic fillings (Sierra de Esparteros) and the Guadaíra and Guadalquivir Rivers’ alluvial terraces (SW of Spain), spotted with vestiges of human activities (Middle Palaeolithic). This study includes the analysis of 20 geoarchaeological sites and 28 lithic assemblages, with a total of 13,233 lithic pieces. Techno-typological and use–wear (SEM) analyses were conducted on these artifacts. Depending on the raw materials and the provenance of these lithic industries, two groups of assemblages were identified: one made of quartzite from the north, and another made of flint from the south. Two main geochronological periods were established (OSL and U/Th): (1) a short duration (MIS6/MIS5) and (2) a long duration (MIS5/MIS3). Techno-typological analysis showed three sorts of activities: (a) the provision and distribution of raw materials, (b) knapping, and (c) other activities that imply the use of a lithic workshop (LW), along with the settlement characteristics of habitual or recurrent (HS), temporary (TS), and indeterminate (IN). This geoarchaeological connectivity is called the “hominid alluvial corridor” (HAC). The underlined features are the geomorphological units, the continuum alluvial series, the raw material of the lithic industries as an indicator of provenance and transportation throughout the alluvial system, and the use–wear analysis of the tool-kit to interpret the functionality of the pieces.

Inventory and assessment of geoarchaeosites in the Middle Eure Valley (Paris Basin, France): An integrated approach to geoarchaeological heritage

For the last decade, there has been an abundance of scattered case studies on geoarchaeological heritage in the scientific literature. Yet, there is a lack of methodological guidelines to inventory and numerically assess a collection of “geoarchaeosites” for heritage conservation and/or tourism purposes. The aim of this paper is to propose an innovative and integrated methodology for the inventory and assessment of geoarchaeological heritage, with an example of application in the Middle Eure Valley (Paris Basin, France). In this work, we suggest the use of the “geoarchaeosite” concept as a contraction of geoarchaeological sites, i.e., sites of particular relevance in understanding past society-environment interactions at the Quaternary or historical time scale. In our approach, archaeological and geomorphological components of a site have the same level of importance, in contrast to the classical approaches on geomorphosites that consider the cultural, archaeological, and/or historical significance of a site as an “additional” value. In the study area, the results provide a selection of 19 geoarchaeosites with contrasted scientific values, ranging from sites of national (fossiliferous site of Saint-Prest, loess-paleosol sequence of Chaudon) and regional rank (Chartres Cathedral and its historical quarry at Berchères-les-Pierres, French Royal Canal Louis XIV-Aqueduct of Maintenon, Megaliths of Changé at Saint-Piat and Eure palaeochannels) to more confidential sites of local interest, with various degrees of vulnerability and potential use. A network analysis of “disconnected geoarchaeosites” according to spatial, chronological, and functional relationships contributes to improving the overall scientific value of the geoarchaeological heritage. Among the prospects that are emerging in the scope of promotional activities, comes the interest of building a digital geoarchaeoheritage platform with a collaborative/participatory aim in order to reinforce heritage ownership by local residents and stakeholders.

El-Gendi Fortress: a new military and religious geo-archaeological site, Sinai, Egypt: geomorphological and hydrogeological remarks

El-Gendi Fortress is a unique geo-archaeological site in Sinai, Egypt. It reflects the progress of the Islamic military architecture during Saladin’s reign (Salah ad-din al Ayyubi), the founder of the Ayyubid dynasty (1174-1260AD). The fortress's location met two major geo-criteria. One is geographical; it is located on a mound 655 m above sea level (a.s.l) and 152 m above El-Tih El-plateau; this elevation contributes to the exploration of the surrounding areas and provides the fortress with a strong defensive position against the Crusaders' invasions of Egypt (1163–1169 AD). The second is Hydro-geological; it provides exceptional access to both meteoric surface (via barrages) and groundwater (through Sudr spring). The latter is from deep aquifers of the Nubian sandstones (Malha Formation) across the fractured carbonates (Raha and Sudr Formations of Cenomanian to Maastrichtian age). Such water was accumulated since the Pleistocene pluvial age until the fortress’ most recent use. The barrages’ location upstream of a sub-basin “a” at Wadi Sudr, in a similar direction to the deep ditch side, confirms that the priority of their design is to protect the region from flash flood risks and to store water on a relatively flat-lying land. The study reveals that the fortress’ geographical location is used to safeguard the Hajj route in central Sinai and to provide facilities for pilgrims’ caravans when they travel from North Africa to Mecca. The study concludes that the fortress should be a part of the Sinai tourism itinerary and promoted globally as a geo-archaeological site for Geo-tourism. In addition, the government should implement a strategy for conserving, rehabilitating, and managing the heritage sites, to improve facilities and increase public awareness of these sites to maximize the outcomes.

Усть-Ёдарма II – опорное многослойное геоархеологическое местонахождение в Северном Приангарье (по результатам работ 2009–2012 гг.)

The article presents the results of studying the material culture of the ancient population of the Northern Angara region from the multilayered geoarchaeological site of Ust-Yodarma 2. The site was located on the right cape of the Yodarma River at its confluence with the Angara River. Excavations were carried out in 2009–2012. As a result, 12 cultural levels were identified on the site in the chronological range from the beginning of the Upper Paleolithic to the ethnographic modernity (17th–20th centuries). The work was carried out on 4 excavations (more than 5 thousand square meters). A correlation was made between cultural levels from different excavations. Holocene deposits are most fully and clearly represented in excavation 1 in area A. Level 0 contains artifacts from the time of the development of the region by Russian pioneers in the 17th and 18th centuries to the modern stage of the existence of the Village Yodarma. Cultural levels 1–4 date from the Middle Ages, the Early Bronze Age, and the Final Neolithic. Levels 5– 8 contain only Neolithic artifacts, while materials from levels 9 and 10 are associated with the Mesolithic. In excavation 1 in area B, an Upper Paleolithic horizon was recorded. Neolithic and Mesolithic levels, as well as Bronze Age burials, have been radiocarbon dated. The total collection of artifacts includes more than 70 thousand finds. A technical and morphological analysis of ceramics, stone and bone tools was carried out. The collection of stone products is represented by products of primary knapping, facial processing, and finished tools (more than 40 thousand finds). Pottery was found in the form of separate fragments and vessels with different decoration techniques. The remains of at least 350 ceramic vessels (more than 14 thousand fragments) have been found. Artifacts made of bone and horn are represented by blanks, finished tools and their fragments, and a sculpture in the form of a moose head. Fire pits of different shapes and designs were recorded. A large number of fauna bones (hunting remains and kitchen refuse) were found. The analysis of artifacts in combination with stratigraphy and radiocarbon data makes it possible to identify the UstYodarma 2 site as a reference object for studying ancient cultures of the Late Pleistocene and Holocene of BaikalYenisei Siberia.

Погребальные комплексы геоархеологического местонахождения Усть-Кеуль 1 (Северное Приангарье): проблемы культурно-хронологической идентификации

This paper presents results of a study of two burial complexes from the geoarchaeological site Ust-Keul 1 in Northern Angara region (excavations of 2012). Mortuary rites and grave goods were analyzed, thus making clear the issue of cultural affiliation of these complexes and defining their uniqueness for the Baikal-Yenisei Siberia. The burials were made by a method of inhumation in ground graves. In both cases structures above and within the graves are absent. The accompanying burial goods are presented by arrowheads with a triangular shape, a concave base and equally large barbs, and by a horn made connector (a cartridge case), the one that was used to attach the stone arrowhead to the arrow shaft. Results of the radiocarbon dating determine the age of the burials by the Late Bronze Age – the Early Iron Age. The dating raises the question about a time of the Tsepan culture bearers` infiltration into the Northern Angara region. Results of the odontological analysis are presented and even based on the description of the extremely fragmented remains, it was possible to define sex and age characteristics of the buried ones. The unearthed fragments and isolated teeth belonged to three individuals. The stage of tooth crowns formation and dental enamel erosion are indicators of the age of the buried ones. Two of them are adolescents (burials 1 and 2, individual 2), and the age of the third individual (burial 2, individual 1), based on the erosion, is between 35–45 years. The results of our research obtained not only with reliance on analogies with other burials in the Northern Angara region but also based on credible radiocarbon data, corroborate the assumption of a somewhat earlier dating of the Tsepan culture burials. There is a discussion about possible infiltration of the Tsepan culture bearers in the Northern Angara region at the end of the Late Bronze Age. However, the issue of a more reliable chronology of these burials under study still remains relevant. The radiocarbon data indicate, at first sight, their earlier age but measurements obtained for burial 2 from the two individuals have large discrepancies. Additionally, they may appear older due to a freshwater reservoir effect. The accompanying burial goods are scarce but allow us, with confidence, to define the burials from Ust-Keul 1 site as belonging to the Tsepan culture.

Культурные тренды и их особенности в материалах стратифицированных комплексов нижнего течения р. Селенги (Итанцинская впадина, юго-восточное Прибайкалье)

The proposed publication presents materials of multilayered geoarchaeological sites of the Southeastern Baikal Region, which have their own specifics of formation. Cultural horizons are included in deposits of subaerial genesis, which mainly form the surfaces of river terraces on the right bank of the main water artery of the region, the Selenga River in its lower reaches. Preliminary cultural and chronological definitions, based on the results of a typological analysis of archaeological collections, demonstrate the dynamics of the development of cultural phenomena from the Final Pleistocene to the Holocene. The main trend, characteristic of almost all the studied sites, demonstrates the “delay” of cultural innovations noted in the archaeological cultures of the eastern coast of Lake Baikal and Western Transbaikalia. As a result of a study of a series of sites in the Itantsa depression (lower reaches of the Selenga River) in the early 2000s, we revealed the stability of the morphological and technical and technological appearance of stone tools in the Final Paleolithic, Mesolithic, and Neolithic. We also noted the uniformity of the typology of the tool set made of stone and bone, and the stability of the exploitation of a single raw material base (raw materials are of the same type in terms of isotropic characteristics). These characteristics indicate a strong tradition of stone processing for more than 10 thousand years. The situation changes about 3–4 thousand years ago (the beginning of the Paleometal era), which is expressed in the expansion of the raw material base of stone raw materials, although stone processing technologies remain in the same technical traditions. Traditions of ceramic production are represented by fragments of vessels with imprints of woven net and cord, found both in the Neolithic assemblages and in the materials of the cultural horizons of the Early Bronze Age. The obtained materials can serve as initial data for the reconstruction of the development of cultural phenomena against the background of changes in the paleoclimatic situation in the Baikal region as a whole. It should also be concluded that human stay in the southeastern Baikal region is associated with climatic fluctuations towards relatively warm conditions, while the humidity indicator did not play a big role.

История изучения позднепалеолитической стоянки Малая Сыя: к 50-летию открытия

This paper presents archival and published materials from the complex geoarchaeological site Malaya Syya, located in a promising area for studying the Paleolithic of Southern Siberia (at the junction of three large orographic structures: the Kuznetsk Alatau mountains, the Batenevsky ridge and the Chebakovo-Balakhta depression of the Minusinsk intermountain trough). The cultural horizons of Malaya Syya are included in deposits of complex genesis, which served as the general background for an ambiguous reading of the stratigraphic, chronological, and archaeological context of cultural remains. The development of archaeological knowledge in Siberia has made it possible to use more effective methods for studying the Malaya Syya assemblages from the point of view of attribution of the collection of stone and bone implements, chronological and planigraphic (spatial) determination. Returning to the early stages of studying this site, it required a detailed understanding of the sequence of formation of research hypotheses against the background of the general development of archaeological knowledge, analysis of the conclusions of researchers (V. E. Larichev, Yu. P. Kholyushkin, N. F. Lisitsyn, etc.) and an explanation of the reasons for the appearance such points of view. We have presented a detailed chronology of the history of research on Malaya Syya, based on the study and analysis of archival materials (archives of the Field Research Department of the Institute of Archaeology RAS, archives of the Institute of Archaeology and Ethnography SB RAS) and published data. It seems to us that the early stages of research on Malaya Syya were dominated by the position of V. E. Larichev’s selfless desire to preserve the destroyed object within the framework of the Iyus Archaeological Reserve. The history of the study determines the key problems of modern understanding of the general process of sedimentation at the site Malaya Syya, geostratigraphy, geochronology, paleontology, characteristics of the archaeological context and attribution of collections, issues of adaptation of the ancient population in specific nature conditions. The current materials and results of research on the site are presented in a series of sequential publications, which are expected to be presented in a monographic study.

Комплекс среднего неолита геоархеологического объекта Падь Долгая II (юго-западное побережье Байкала)

This article presents the results of the analysis of materials from complex of the II-nd cultural layer of the geoarchaeological site Pad Dolgaya 2, which was excavated in 1988. The multilayer site is located on the southwestern coast of Lake Baikal, in 34 km southwest from the Buguldeika village. For the first time, a stratigraphic section of this object is published and its description is given. A household complex was revealed, including pottery of the Posolsk type with a thickening of the rim with a subtriangular molding on the outside, stone artifacts and faunal remains (mainly young seals). Vessels ornamented in the classic Posolsk type tradition are prevail. In a number of cases, tendencies towards simplification of the ornamental scheme and leveling of the thickening of the rim were noted. Probably, the site was seasonal and was aimed at hunting seals. Hunting for hoofed animals (red deer) and, probably, fishing were secondary. On the basis of stratigraphic observations and analogies with materials from reference objects of the Baikal region, dated by the radiocarbon AMS method, complex of the II-nd layer of the Pad Dolgaya 2 site belongs to the Middle Neolithic and is dated within 6840-6300 cal. BP. The presented materials make it possible to more fully characterize the Middle Neolithic complexes of the coast of Lake Baikal and the Baikal region. The stratigraphic situation, high-quality and informative material constitute a reliable source base, which can be a reference in the study of the cultural and economic activities of the ancient population of the region.

GEOLOGICAL, GEOARCHAEOLOGICAL, BIOLOGICAL, AND HISTORICAL HERITAGE OF LENGGONG GEOPARK DEVELOPMENT

The Lenggong Valley is uniquely significant in national and international geological heritage and was declared a UNESCO Archaeological Heritage Site in 2012. The Lenggong Valley was formed 550 million years ago. It is one of the oldest in Peninsular Malaysia, equivalent to the rock formations in Langkawi and Jerai. The geological evolution in the Lenggong Valley also produced biodiversity and the history of early human prehistoric to the present time. Due to this privilege, the Lenggong Geopark nomination development effort started in 2020 by forming the Geopark Promotion and Development Committee. Lenggong Geopark covers an area of 2,068 km2 (enclosed by the boundaries of the Lenggong Parliament). A total of 27 geosites have been identified, depicting four important geological and historical tectonic evolutions and special geomorphic features in the Lenggong Valley. Eight biosites are still preserved, involving granite mountain, limestone, and lowland ecosystems covered by different forest types. It is the limestone hills that contain a large number of rare and endemic flora species. In addition, eight geoarchaeological sites were also identified that depicts the interaction between early humans and the geological landscape. The unique and preserved traditions of life, art and culture have added value to the geopark. Therefore, active efforts continue to be carried out in the development of geosites and programs with the local community to foster a high sense of pride and belonging to a place, in addition to an understanding of the preservation and conservation of natural and cultural heritage in Lenggong Geopark. Various activities based on tourism activities are also planned to stimulate the economy and introduce Lenggong as the second national geopark area in the State of Perak.

Многослойные геоархеологические объекты побережья озера Байкал: итоги и перспективы изучения

The article summarizes and analyzes information on 16 multilayered geoarchaeological sites of the Lake Baikal coast, including the famous Ulan-Khada site. The research is based on the results of excavations, literary and archival materials. A list of local sites has been determined, their mapping, archaeological assessment, and radiocarbon data (153 dates, mostly AMS) have been analyzed. These sites are provided with stratigraphic, geological, and geomorphological characteristics, high-quality and informative materials. They represent a reliable source base and are the basis for the study of the regional Holocene cultures and the reconstruction of paleoclimates and paleolandscapes. The predominant location of multilayered sites on the western coast of Lake Baikal and, first of all, its Little Sea section is noted. From 3 to 15 cultural levels have been recorded on multilayered sites, containing finds from different periods from the Stone Age to the Late Iron Age. Currently, only two multilayered sites (Kurla 1 and Kurla 4) are known on the Lake Baikal coast, containing complexes of the Final Paleolithic. Early Holocene assemblages were noted at 8 sites (the most significant are Sagan-Nuge, Berloga, and Ityrkhei 1). Stratified Neolithic complexes predominate belogning to the early (10 sites), middle (4 sites) and late (9 sites) stages of this period. Among the most significant sites containing several isolated Neolithic layers are Sagan-Zaba 2, Ityrkhei 1, Tyshkine 2, Katun 1, Buguldeika 1 and 2. Reference sites for the Early Bronze Age are Ulan-Khada 1, Katun 1, Tyshkine 2 and 3, and for the Late Bronze Age – Tyshkine 3, Katun 1 and Berloga. At the Sagan-Zaba 2, Katun 1, and Buguldeika 2 sites, studies of the Early and Late Iron Age are promising. Radiocarbon dates have been obtained for almost all the studied sites (14). The complexes of the Early (29 dates) and Late (22 dates) Neolithic are the most endowed with them. At present, the chronology of the Lake Baikal coast cultural complexes seems to be as follows: the Final Paleolithic – 19,270–14,250 cal BP, Mesolithic – 13,070–8220 cal BP, Early Neolithic – 8170-6900 cal BP, Middle Neolithic – 6930–6290 cal BP, Late Neolithic – 5840–4650 cal BP, Early Bronze Age – 4850(4530)–3220 cal BP, Late Bronze Age – 3330–2000 cal BP, Early Iron Age – 2120–1530 cal BP, Late Iron Age – 1240–940 cal BP.

Geoarchaeological studies in the early medieval Santok stronghold (north‐western Poland)

AbstractSantok played a strategic socio‐political role in the Early Middle Ages. It is situated at the confluence of two large rivers (Warta and Noteć) on the boundary of historical regions in north‐western Poland. The stronghold in Santok is located on a sandy elevated floodplain with frequent floods in the immediate vicinity of the morainic plateau. The geological and engineering conditions within the stronghold were complex, making it a very difficult area for construction. The oldest settlement in Santok was established in the 8th century AD as a seasonal exchange point. By the 10th century, a well‐fortified fortress was built as a strategic centre at the border of the first Polish state. Santok's stronghold was maintained for over 600 years, during which the community benefited from its wetland location and useful waterways connecting local and distant territories. The extended use of one location in Santok allowed for investigation of the anthropogenic and natural environmental changes throughout a long time period. Given its past significance, this area has become a key geoarchaeological site to understand human–environment interactions of the western Slavs in the Early Middle Ages.

Geoarchaeology within the system of archaeological research in the territory of Baikal Siberia

The value of geoarchaeology in archaeological research is discussed with an example of Baikal Siberia. Geoarchaeology is considered as an interface between archaeology and Earth sciences comprising a specific set of approaches, methods, and procedures. Nowadays, geoarchaeology constitutes a full-fledged research branch within the world archaeological practice. However, there are some problems in the determination of the essence and the role of geoarchaeology in archaeological studies, especially in Russia. In particular, the question whether geoarchaeology represents an independent discipline or an interdisciplinary approach has not been resolved yet. Moreover, archaeologists often focus on increasing the number of analytical methods to the detriment of their conceptual basis. In the Russian archaeological practice, the uncertain role of geoarchaeology is manifested by its perception as an auxiliary discipline with limited capabilities for the archaeological interpretations. As a result of many years of research on archaeological sites of Baikal Siberia, we have developed our own concept of geoarchaeology as a source study with a transdisciplinary character. It is based on four principles. Firstly, in our opinion, geoarchaeology constitutes a source study discipline with its own research methods. Geoarchaeological assessment represents one of the most important verification methods aimed at the determination of the degree of correspondence between the results of archaeological and natural science data. Secondly, the main object of research is a geoarchaeological object, which is a composite integral system with a mixture of traces of natural and anthropogenic events encrypted in it. We define the layer with cultural remains, where the natural component predominates, as ‘culture-bearing’. The layer with the predominantly anthropogenic component can be called ‘cultural’. Thirdly, geoarchaeology should be a transdisciplinary branch, the nature of which is determined by the complex origins of the geoarchaeological site. Such an amalgamation allows overcoming disciplinary differences and contradictions which leads to the formation of new knowledge levels. At fourth, geoarchaeological research should be based principally on the methods of actualism and stratigraphy in conjunction with overcoming misidentification of objects and phenomena, as well as on the pedolithological and event-driven approaches.

О разработке базы данных ArchaeoNomos для сопровождения археологических исследований

Archeology is the only branch of human study that relies more on material remains left by people than on direct observation of human behavior or on written evidence. This focus on material evidence compels archaeologists to improve the methods and techniques of collecting and interpreting data that ensure the extraction of maximum information from available sources. The article provides an analysis of existing national and foreign information and geoinformation systems representing data on archaeological finds, cultural sites, and research documentation. A description of the existing standards, which regulate the list of attributes of geoarchaeological objects, is provided. The article also describes the stages of conceptual and logical modeling of the “ArchaeoNomos” database, which represents a unified repository for all data accompanying archaeological investigations, archaeological research and design, and documentation of research activities of the Scientific Research Center “Baikal Region” of Irkutsk State University. The problem of automating the processes of storage, processing, modification, and interpretation of geoarchaeological data is formulated. The system analysis of the subject area, system specification of an application that works with a database, the surveying specialists of the subject area to identify associations between database objects are presented. The infological and physical models of data presentation in the database are described, which allows the integration of the accumulated archaeological data into larger scientific associations. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of using relational databases as repositories for archaeological data are outlined. The purpose of creating the “ArchaeoNomos” database is to implement measures for the preservation of the archaeological heritage, including the introduction and the use of the database by scientists that systematize and automate access to accumulated scientific data, including literary sources. The sub-goals include solving the problem of organizing and storing archaeological data, implementing multilingual interfaces in the information system, organizing information support for field and laboratory archaeological research, transferring the physical (nondigital) historical data storage system to a digital system. “ArchaeoNomos” database allows to keep records, analyze, visualize, and interpret data on geoarchaeological sites of Irkutsk and the Irkutsk region.

Интерпретация строения пойменного аллювия: на примере разрезов геоархеологического объекта Остров Лиственичный (Северо-Восточное Приангарье)

This paper examines characteristic features of floodplain accumulation at geoarchaeological site Ostrov Listvenichnyi, located on the Angara River at the same-name island (Northeast Angara region, Baikal Siberia). The problems of interpretation of topographic and lithological data, island architecture, glacial and postglacial natural climatic insights (MIS 2–MIS 1) are also touched upon. The accumulation of sediments at a series of 16 archaeological test pits recorded along the northwestern side of the island was analyzed by using pedolithological method. Island formation history included the upbuilding of the origin island based on river point bar, further transformation into “east” pre-island and final articulation of ancient “east” pre-island and younger “west” pre-island. The primary differences in alluvium composition of ancient pre-island (red beds, clay loam) and Holocene sedimentations (grey beds, sandy loam), both situated at the same level, were identified and explained. Detailed analysis of floodplain accumulation revealed eight distinct lithological layers varying by the structure and the composition. The following conclusions were reached based on the data available: lithological strata 1–5 have formed in Sartan, lithological strata 6–8 have formed in Holocene. Every layer contains the information on the changing climate and environment: signals of floods (high flood stages in 7 layer, “dry” stages in 3 layer), different phases of humification (humusless strata 1–4, first fragile humus horizons in layer 5, more pronounced humus horizons a, b, c, d in layer 4, and humus background in strata 7–8), epigenetic markers of сryogenic processes in strata 3–5. Analysis suggest also three chronologically differentiated floodplain benches: lower 1,5–2 meter bench (top of layer 3) associated with Middle Sartan; middle 2,5–3 meter bench (top of layer 5) associated with Final Sartan; top 4,5–5 meter bench (top of layer 8) associated with modern time.

MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE PROTECTION AND PROMOTION OF GEOHERITAGE AT MEDOBORY NATURE RESERVE

The article deals with the management plan for the geoheritage sites as a component of the “Management Plan for the Medobory Nature Reserve and the Protection of its Natural Sites”. Critical analysis of the need for a comprehensive study of components of inanimate nature, in particular, geological-geomorphological structure of the protected areas with distinct geographic heritage, in the basic national documents “Management Plan for the Nature Reserve and the Protection of its Natural Sites” and “Chronicle of Nature of the Areas and Sites of the Nature Reserve Fund of Ukraine”. In particular, the experience of scientific support for Polish plans for the national parks involves special documentation focusing on the geological environment. It substantiates the algorithm for the study of geoheritage at the Medobory Nature Reserve: from the inventory of the geological-geomorphological component of the territory to the measures for geoeducational support and geoheritage promotion. It analyzes peculiarities of the geological-geomorphological structure of the Medobory Nature Reserve, which represents the fossil barrier reef of the Badenian-Sarmatian age. The basic lithologic-stratigraphic and geomorphological scientific-educational values of the territory of the reserve were emphasized. The proposed management plan for the conservation and promotion of the Medobory Nature Reserve's geoheritage presupposes appropriate strategic objectives for a ten-year period and operational activities for a five-year period. The key strategic objectives and the corresponding measures to preserve and promote the geoheritage of the Medobory Nature Reserve are as follows: conservation of the geoheritage sites and geo-archaeological heritage sites with the inventory of valuable outcrops and reefogenic formations, inventory of parent and mantle rocks to develop the consolidated stratigraphic section; development of a permanent infrastructure for geoeducational activities with measures aimed at creating educational exhibition in the administrative building of the reserve; development of geotourist trails with information-educational support of existing ecoeducational trails and development of new scientific and geoeducational trails. It is important to elaborate the project for creating the National Geopark “Fossil Barrier Reef of Podillya” at the Medobory Nature Reserve and the Podilski Tovtry National Nature Park. Its main functions will include conservation of the Tovtry Ridge as a unique geological-geomorphological phenomenon, combined with the organization of elements of geoeducation and geotourism as a component of the sustainable development of the region. Key words: reserve, geoheritage, geological and geomorphological structure, management plan, strategic objectives, operational activities, promotion, Medobory, fossil barrier reef.

До історії досліджень геоархеологічних пам’ятoк Лівобережжя Середнього Придніпров’я

The article presents an analysis of the study of archeological sites by methodology of natural sciences on the left bank of the Middle Dnieper, namely 23 sites from the Middle Palaeolithic to the Iron Ages (11 in Chernihiv region; 2 in Sumy region; 6 in Poltava region; 2 in Kyiv region and 1 in Dnipropetrovsk region). Three stages in the sites research have been established on the basis of the complex of methods applied: 1) 1st half of the 20th century - 1980s – the discovery of majority of the sites and settlements on the left bank of the Middle Dnieper region; mainly geological and palaeontological studies. 2) 1980s–2000 – introduction of new (or improved) natural science methods, the complex interpretation and analysis of former research materials. The first appearance of pollen data in the studied area was an important milestone; 3) the beginning of the 21st century – nowadays – further implementation of pollen and palaeopedological methods in the study of the previously known and newly discovered sites. Uneven distribution of the Palaeolithic sites in the area studied was shown (with their significant concentration in the Desna region). The geoarchaeological sites were studied with a different number of methods – 13 out of 23 sites were dated by the radiocarbon method, 9 sites also had palynological and palaeopedological data, 18 of them had paleontological findings. The most complete and representative information is obtained for the following Palaeolithic sites: Pushkari I, Buhorok, Dobranichivka, Hintsi, Buzhanka II, Obolonnia and the Neolithic site Pohorilivka-Vyrchyshche. The Bronze and Chalcolithic sites in the area were studied less intensely and with less number of methods than the Palaeolithic sites. The necessity for further palynological and palaeopedological studies of the archaeological sites is highlighted.

The Younger Dryas black mat from Ojo de Agua, a geoarchaeological site in Northeastern Zacatecas, Mexico

New explorations in the desert of northeastern Zacatecas, in central-northern Mexico, revealed dozens of archaeological and geoarchaeological sites. One of them, Ojo de Agua, contains the remains of a Pleistocene spring-fed hydrographic system located at the southeastern end of a large elongated endorheic basin. The locality yielded a particularly dark, highly organic stratigraphic layer commonly known in the Americas as Black Mat (BM), exposed on the natural profiles of a creek, but not associated with cultural materials. Several radiocarbon assessments confirmed the formation of the Ojo de Agua Black Mat during the Younger Dryas chronozone, with ten calibrated results clustering between 12,700–12,100 cal BP. This multi-proxy study confirmed the peculiarity of the deposit and found similarities and differences with other contexts of Younger Dryas age. The Ojo de Agua Black Mat (stratum C2) is far richer in charcoal specks than the related strata, but lacks phytoliths, diatoms or ostracods. No further biological remains were found in it, except for intrusive capillary roots. Clearly water-lain in a shallow pond, the stratum qualifies as a clayey silt with an acidic-to-neutral pH. Rich in heavy metals and with high contents of titanium, the Ojo de Agua Black Mat yielded significant indicators of intense wildfires during the Younger Dryas, but produced no carbon spherules or nanodiamonds supposedly linked to the impact theory.