Horizontal excavation

Definition

Horizontal excavation is an archaeological method that involves digging along a horizontal plane to reveal artifacts, features, and structures from a specific time period without disturbing the layers beneath. This technique is crucial for understanding the spatial relationships between different cultural deposits and for maintaining the integrity of stratigraphic layers. By focusing on a single layer or phase, archaeologists can better interpret the use and organization of space within a site.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Horizontal excavation is often employed in urban archaeology where layers can be densely packed and tightly stratified due to continuous occupation.
2. This method allows archaeologists to identify the layout and organization of structures, such as houses or public buildings, as well as to examine the spatial distribution of artifacts.
3. It differs from vertical excavation, which aims to uncover chronological sequences by digging down through layers.
4. Proper documentation during horizontal excavation is essential for reconstructing the relationships between artifacts and features across the excavation area.
5. Horizontal excavation can reveal patterns of activity, such as trade, domestic life, and ritual practices, by examining how spaces were used over time.

Review Questions

• How does horizontal excavation differ from vertical excavation in terms of archaeological objectives?
  • Horizontal excavation focuses on exposing a specific layer or feature horizontally to analyze spatial relationships and organization of artifacts within that context. In contrast, vertical excavation aims to uncover the chronological sequence of deposits by digging down through multiple layers. This difference in approach means that horizontal excavation is particularly useful in urban settings or areas with complex stratigraphy where understanding the use of space is essential.
• Discuss the importance of documentation in horizontal excavation and its impact on data analysis.
  • Documentation during horizontal excavation is crucial because it allows archaeologists to record the position and context of artifacts and features meticulously. This thorough record-keeping supports later analysis by providing a clear understanding of how different elements relate spatially. Without proper documentation, interpreting the site’s layout and inferring patterns of human activity would be significantly compromised, leading to potential misinterpretations of archaeological findings.
• Evaluate the contributions of horizontal excavation to our understanding of social organization in ancient societies.
  • Horizontal excavation plays a vital role in revealing social organization by highlighting how spaces were used and structured within ancient communities. Through this method, archaeologists can identify different functional areas, such as living quarters versus communal spaces, which reflect social hierarchies and interactions among community members. By analyzing these spatial relationships, researchers can gain insights into daily life, trade practices, and even ritual activities, ultimately contributing to a more nuanced understanding of past societies.

Related terms

Stratigraphy:

The study of rock layers and layering, used in archaeology to analyze the sequence of human activity through different layers of soil and artifacts.

Contextual Analysis:

A method of examining artifacts within their context to understand their relationships and significance in relation to other finds.

Test Excavation: A preliminary excavation technique where small areas are dug to assess the potential of a site for significant archaeological finds.