'Geoarchaeology' is the application of Earth Science approaches and techniques to the resolution of archaeological problems. The Earth Sciences comprise geology (and its various sub-disciplines), geomorphology, pedology (soil science) and remote sensing. Given that the majority of archaeological sites are both contained within and formed of a sediment and/or soil matrix, geoarchaeology should be a component part of most archaeological projects. Geoarchaeological advice obtained at an early stage of a project will enable zones of potential archaeological preservation to be much better discriminated than if conventional archaeological methods were used in isolation, thereby enabling more informed and cost-effective sampling strategies to be implemented.

Geoarchaeological Studies

ARCA's geoarchaeological services are designed to help clients at all archaeological investigation stages, from project formulation and research design through fieldwork to analysis and publication. Follow the links below to find out more.

Geoarchaeological Services

Analytical Geoarcheology Borehole Studies

Desktop Geoarchaeology Geoarchaeological Site Visits

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To discuss the geoarchaeology of your project, contact Keith Wilkinson

Click here to access the English Heritage guide to geoarchaeology (pdf).