Ausgrabungstechnik

Ausgrabungstechnik refers to the systematic methods and procedures used in archaeology to uncover and recover material remains from the earth. It is a crucial aspect of archaeological fieldwork, aiming to extract artifacts, ecofacts, and features with minimal disturbance to their original context. The primary goal is to document and preserve the evidence for future study and interpretation.

The techniques employed vary depending on the nature of the site, the type of remains expected, and the research questions being addressed. Common methods include stratigraphical excavation, where the site is excavated layer by layer, respecting the natural depositional sequence. This allows archaeologists to understand the chronological order of events and the relationships between different finds. Grid systems are often used to divide the excavation area into manageable units, facilitating precise recording of the location of all discoveries.

Tools range from delicate brushes and dental picks for fragile materials to larger implements like trowels, shovels, and even heavy machinery for overburden removal. Sieving is a standard practice to recover small artifacts and ecofacts that might otherwise be missed. Detailed recording is paramount, involving photography, drawing, and written descriptions of every stage of the excavation.

Modern Ausgrabungstechnik increasingly incorporates non-destructive methods like geophysical surveys (e.g., ground-penetrating radar, magnetometry) to identify potential subsurface features before excavation begins, thereby optimizing fieldwork and minimizing unnecessary disturbance. The ultimate aim of all Ausgrabungstechnik is to gather high-quality data that contributes to a better understanding of past human societies.