Digital documentation plays a central role in our archaeological work. By using modern technologies, we can precisely record and analyse the finds and structures. At Doliche, we primarily use the following tools and instruments for the digital documentation of excavation results.

Structure from Motion (SfM) with Agisoft Metashape

Structure from Motion (SfM) is a photogrammetric technique that enables the creation of three-dimensional models from two-dimensional images. We use Metashape software to capture high-resolution photos of our excavation sites, which are then converted into detailed 3D models. This approach allows us to analyse the sites from different angles and create precise documentation.

SfM sometimes uses several hundred photographs, which are fed into the software. In an automated process, the software compares these images and searches for matching features in order to recognise spatial structures and generate a 3D model. This not only facilitates the precise documentation of the excavation, but also the context-orientated evaluation of the information collected, such as finds mapping and phase plans. The generated models provide a comprehensive basis for the analysis and documentation of archaeological sites and significantly support the surveying work.

During the excavation work in Doliche, the individual plana of the trenches are documented in this way. With the help of control points, which are set and measured tachymetrically before the trenches are photographed, the calculated models can be linked with coordinates and thus equalised, georeferenced perspectives can be created. These orthophotos serve as the basis for the documentation drawings of the plana to be produced manually in the field and are then stored in the QGIS cadastral programme.

The QGIS categorisation programme

QGIS is a powerful open source geoinformation system that we use to create and analyse maps and plans as part of our excavations. With QGIS, we can process and visualise georeferenced data, which enables us to carry out a precise spatial analysis of our sites.

By integrating QGIS into our workflows, we are able to produce detailed maps and plans of the excavation sites. These maps also include topographical information and other relevant data that is important for the interpretation of the site. For example, we can include elevation models and other geological features in our analyses.

QGIS also allows us to combine and overlay different datasets. This is particularly useful for understanding the spatial relationships between different artefacts and structures, as well as being able to view the previously documented plana on top of each other. In this way, we can recognise patterns that indicate certain traces of use or settlement structures and develop hypotheses about the historical use of the site.

QGIS supports us in documenting and archiving our excavation data. By systematically recording and managing the georeferenced information, we ensure that our research results remain available and traceable in the long term. This is particularly important for scientific processing and for future research projects that can build on our data.

Laser Aided Profiler (LAP)

Additionally, our find processing team has worked with a Laser Aided Profiler to digitise the ceramic finds. The modern profiler enables us to precisely measure and digitise individual sherds. Each sherd is measured in such detail that we can draw conclusions about the shape and size of the original vessel.

Artec Space Spider Handscanner

The Artec Space Spider is a precise handheld 3D scanner used by the building research team specifically to capture architectural elements of the temple. With its high accuracy, this scanner enables the digital capture of even the finest structures. As a result, the architectural parts of the temple can be documented in detail, conserved and comprehensively analysed. This is of great importance in building research, as it is not only time-saving, but above all precision and the direct digital availability of the data that are crucial.

Aerial shots with the drone

Our drone plays a crucial role in the archaeological excavation by allowing us not only to take aerial photographs of the excavation site, but also to generate large-scale terrain models of the excavation area. The high-resolution aerial photographs give us a comprehensive overview of the entire excavation area and allow us to document the uncovered structures in detail.

The drone flies over the excavation area and continuously captures images, which are then combined into precise 3D terrain models. These models provide us with valuable information about the topography of the area, including elevation differences and geological formations. This allows us to better understand the spatial relationships between different archaeological features and develop hypotheses about the use and settlement of the site.

Another advantage of using drones is the time and cost savings. Compared to traditional surveying methods, drone surveys are quicker to carry out and allow us to map large areas in a short space of time. The resulting models support us in the planning and execution of excavations by identifying potentially interesting areas and helping us to adapt the excavation strategy in a targeted manner.

The drone images can also be used for public relations work and the presentation of our finds. The visualised models and aerial photographs offer vivid insights into our work and make the archaeological discoveries accessible to a wider audience. This promotes interest in and understanding of the importance of archaeological research and its results.