Archaeology: Most Popular Articles
These articles are the most popular over the last month.
Letter of Intent
A letter of intent addressed to each graduate school you apply to is your opportunity to show your strengths and that you recognize your weaknesses.
A letter of intent addressed to each graduate school you apply to is your opportunity to show your strengths and that you recognize your weaknesses.
A Walking Tour of Machu Picchu
The residential palace of the Inca king Pachacuti has drawn tourists from all over the world because of its lovely impossible location at the edge of the world. Gina Carey was at Machu Picchu during the Summer of 2004, and shares her photographs with us.
The residential palace of the Inca king Pachacuti has drawn tourists from all over the world because of its lovely impossible location at the edge of the world. Gina Carey was at Machu Picchu during the Summer of 2004, and shares her photographs with us.
Terracotta Army
The exquisite terracotta army of the first Qin Dynasty ruler Shihuangdi represents the emperor’s ability to control the resources of the newly unified China, and his attempt to recreate and maintain that empire in the afterlife.
The exquisite terracotta army of the first Qin Dynasty ruler Shihuangdi represents the emperor’s ability to control the resources of the newly unified China, and his attempt to recreate and maintain that empire in the afterlife.
Research Paper Topics
If your archaeology or anthropology professor has assigned you a research paper to write on any archaeological culture or site, how do you pick one? Luckily, there are several ways, located right here.
If your archaeology or anthropology professor has assigned you a research paper to write on any archaeological culture or site, how do you pick one? Luckily, there are several ways, located right here.
The New Seven Wonders: Taj Mahal (India)
The New Seven Wonders: Taj Mahal (India)
The New Seven Wonders: Taj Mahal (India)
Who Were the Aryans?
The Aryan Invasion Myth was developed in the late 19th century to explain the blossoming of the Indus River Civilization; but it stems from a flawed argument and old fashioned racist supremacism.
The Aryan Invasion Myth was developed in the late 19th century to explain the blossoming of the Indus River Civilization; but it stems from a flawed argument and old fashioned racist supremacism.
The Blue Mosque of Istanbul - Archaeology and the Great Churches of the World
The Blue Mosque of Istanbul is one of several structures in the ancient city of Constantinople
The Blue Mosque of Istanbul is one of several structures in the ancient city of Constantinople
The Sphinx, Old Kingdom, Egypt
The Sphinx, Old Kingdom, Egypt
The Sphinx, Old Kingdom, Egypt
Ramapithecus
Ramapithecus is one of our pre-human ancestors from between 12 and 14 million years ago.
Ramapithecus is one of our pre-human ancestors from between 12 and 14 million years ago.
Nalanda University Ruins, India
Nalanda University Ruins, India
Nalanda University Ruins, India
Archaeology Quiz: Tutankhamun's Tomb
Archaeology Quiz: Tutankhamun's Tomb
Archaeology Quiz: Tutankhamun's Tomb
Great Pyramid at Giza
Great Pyramid at Giza
Great Pyramid at Giza
Dog Domestication
When and where the partnership of dog and humans first occurred is currently under considerable debate.
When and where the partnership of dog and humans first occurred is currently under considerable debate.
Bibliography of Agriculture
References about farming and gardening in archaeology, from Mary Dunn through Gayle Fritz.
References about farming and gardening in archaeology, from Mary Dunn through Gayle Fritz.
A Walking Tour of Olympia
Photographer Aschwin Prein provides a walking tour of the ancient Greek classical site of Olympia, the original location of the Olympic Games. Excavations at the site were the direct impetus for the reinstitution of the games, 1700 years after the games were banned.
Photographer Aschwin Prein provides a walking tour of the ancient Greek classical site of Olympia, the original location of the Olympic Games. Excavations at the site were the direct impetus for the reinstitution of the games, 1700 years after the games were banned.
Paleolithic
A definition and chronology of the Stone Age (more commonly known to scholars as the Paleolithic era), which in human prehistory is the name given to the period between about 2.5 million and 20,000 years ago.
A definition and chronology of the Stone Age (more commonly known to scholars as the Paleolithic era), which in human prehistory is the name given to the period between about 2.5 million and 20,000 years ago.
Agricultural Bibliography 2
References on the study of farming in prehistory, from James Petersen through Robert Sasso.
References on the study of farming in prehistory, from James Petersen through Robert Sasso.
Cro-Magnon
Cro-Magnons are something that every kid hears about growing up; but scientists no longer use the term. What is a cro-magnon and why don't we use that term any more, and what do we use instead?
Cro-Magnons are something that every kid hears about growing up; but scientists no longer use the term. What is a cro-magnon and why don't we use that term any more, and what do we use instead?
Bitumen
Bitumen is a black, oily, viscous material that is a naturally-occurring organic byproduct of decomposed organic materials; and it was used by humans and our ancestors for any number of very useful things for the past 40,000 years.
Bitumen is a black, oily, viscous material that is a naturally-occurring organic byproduct of decomposed organic materials; and it was used by humans and our ancestors for any number of very useful things for the past 40,000 years.
Silk Worms - Where and When were Silk Worms Domesticated?
Silk worms were first domesticated in China, probably during the Longshan period (3500-2000 BC)
Silk worms were first domesticated in China, probably during the Longshan period (3500-2000 BC)
Mesopotamia
Mesopotamia is an ancient civilization that took up pretty much everything that today is modern Iraq, a triangular patch wedged between the Tigris River, the Zagros Mountains, and the Lesser Zab River.
Mesopotamia is an ancient civilization that took up pretty much everything that today is modern Iraq, a triangular patch wedged between the Tigris River, the Zagros Mountains, and the Lesser Zab River.
Pompeii
Arguably the best known archaeological site in the world--and one of the best documented on the web.
Arguably the best known archaeological site in the world--and one of the best documented on the web.
Damascus Steel
Damascus steel, the legendary steel blade scimitar of the Islamic side in the Crusades, was a formidable piece of weaponry for the middle ages. Modern science has given us new insights into how this iron metal was forged, and why this useful technology became lost.
Damascus steel, the legendary steel blade scimitar of the Islamic side in the Crusades, was a formidable piece of weaponry for the middle ages. Modern science has given us new insights into how this iron metal was forged, and why this useful technology became lost.
Glass Making
Glass is a transparent hard substance created by the application of enormous amounts of heat to sand or quartz. Nature's glass is made by volcanic action, superheating and creating the substance called obsidian.
Glass is a transparent hard substance created by the application of enormous amounts of heat to sand or quartz. Nature's glass is made by volcanic action, superheating and creating the substance called obsidian.
Animal Domestication
Domestication is the process of genetically adapting an animal or plant to better suit the needs of human beings; this page includes a definition of domestication and a table of domestication dates for animals in the world.
Domestication is the process of genetically adapting an animal or plant to better suit the needs of human beings; this page includes a definition of domestication and a table of domestication dates for animals in the world.
Minoan Civilization
The Minoan civilization is what archaeologists call the early part of the prehistoric Bronze Age of Greece.
The Minoan civilization is what archaeologists call the early part of the prehistoric Bronze Age of Greece.
Palace of Minos
The Palace of Minos is of legendary importance to the world, part of the Aegean culture known known as Minoan is the Bronze Age civilization that flourished on the island of Crete during the second and third millennia B.C.
The Palace of Minos is of legendary importance to the world, part of the Aegean culture known known as Minoan is the Bronze Age civilization that flourished on the island of Crete during the second and third millennia B.C.
Kilwa Kisiwani
On a small island off the coast of Tanzania lies the site of Kilwa Kisiwani, also called Kilwa, the most important of about thirty-five trading sites on the Indian Ocean during the 11th through 16th centuries AD.
On a small island off the coast of Tanzania lies the site of Kilwa Kisiwani, also called Kilwa, the most important of about thirty-five trading sites on the Indian Ocean during the 11th through 16th centuries AD.
Hampi Ruins, India
Hampi Ruins, India
Hampi Ruins, India
Chichen Itza - Sacred Well (Cenote), Chichen Itza, Mexico
Chichen Itza - Sacred Cenote - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Chichen Itza - Sacred Cenote - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Grad Schools - North America
Guide to graduate schools--universities that award graduate degrees to prospective archaeologists--in North America, including Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
Guide to graduate schools--universities that award graduate degrees to prospective archaeologists--in North America, including Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
Discovery of Fire
The discovery of fire was one of the earliest discoveries of humans. Fire's purposes are multiple, some of which are to add light and heat, to cook plants and animals, to clear forests for planting, to heat-treat stone for making stone tools, to burn clay for ceramic objects.
The discovery of fire was one of the earliest discoveries of humans. Fire's purposes are multiple, some of which are to add light and heat, to cook plants and animals, to clear forests for planting, to heat-treat stone for making stone tools, to burn clay for ceramic objects.
Tenochtitlan
The Aztec culture site called Tenochtitlan was located in a very peculiar place today, in a marsh in the middle of a lake surrounded by mountains--a place now called Mexico City.
The Aztec culture site called Tenochtitlan was located in a very peculiar place today, in a marsh in the middle of a lake surrounded by mountains--a place now called Mexico City.
Chickens: When and Where were Chickens Domesticated?
Evidence for chicken domestication suggests that it may have been domesticated several times over the course of several centuries, but beginning by at least 8,000 years ago.
Evidence for chicken domestication suggests that it may have been domesticated several times over the course of several centuries, but beginning by at least 8,000 years ago.
Arrowheads
Arrowheads are the most identifiable archaeological artifact in the world. Whether they've personally collected them from nearby farmlands, seen them in museum displays or just watched them being shot into people in John Wayne movies, most people know the triangular tips of arrow shafts are the remnants of a hunting trip.
Arrowheads are the most identifiable archaeological artifact in the world. Whether they've personally collected them from nearby farmlands, seen them in museum displays or just watched them being shot into people in John Wayne movies, most people know the triangular tips of arrow shafts are the remnants of a hunting trip.
Aksum
The Kingdom of Aksum (first through sixth centuries AD) was one of the most powerful kingdoms in sub-Saharan Africa, connecting the Roman empire and the rest of the world in the region of the Red Sea.
The Kingdom of Aksum (first through sixth centuries AD) was one of the most powerful kingdoms in sub-Saharan Africa, connecting the Roman empire and the rest of the world in the region of the Red Sea.
Emperor Qin's Terracotta Army
A walking tour of the terracotta army of the Qin Dynasty emperor of China who united China in 221 BC, Emperor Shihuangdi.
A walking tour of the terracotta army of the Qin Dynasty emperor of China who united China in 221 BC, Emperor Shihuangdi.
Timing is Everything
A short course on the various dating methods used in archaeological science over the centuries. Part 1: Relative Dating
A short course on the various dating methods used in archaeological science over the centuries. Part 1: Relative Dating
Scenes from Paradise
A selection of images from the Brooklyn Museum's planned exhibition of Roman mosaics from a Jewish synagogue in Tunisia in the latter days of the Roman empire.
A selection of images from the Brooklyn Museum's planned exhibition of Roman mosaics from a Jewish synagogue in Tunisia in the latter days of the Roman empire.
Inca Gold Figurine, Peru
This gold figurine, and similar gold pieces from Cuzco, are rare finds. While at one time the Inca had plentiful gold deposits, objects such as this, along with most of Cuzco's gold, were taken by Spanish conquistadors in the early 1500s and shipped to Europe
This gold figurine, and similar gold pieces from Cuzco, are rare finds. While at one time the Inca had plentiful gold deposits, objects such as this, along with most of Cuzco's gold, were taken by Spanish conquistadors in the early 1500s and shipped to Europe
Tirana Mosque of Et'hem Bey, Albania
Tirana Mosque of Et'hem Bey, Albania
Tirana Mosque of Et'hem Bey, Albania
Lower Paleolithic Period
The Lower Paleolithic period (2.7 million to 200,000 years ago) is the first archaeology, that is to say, that period when the first evidence of what scientists consider human behaviors occurred.
The Lower Paleolithic period (2.7 million to 200,000 years ago) is the first archaeology, that is to say, that period when the first evidence of what scientists consider human behaviors occurred.
Ancient Egypt: Timeline
Ancient Egypt is considered to have begun about 3050 BC, when the first pharaoh Menes united Lower Egypt (referring to the river delta region of the Nile River), and Upper Egypt (everything south of the delta).
Ancient Egypt is considered to have begun about 3050 BC, when the first pharaoh Menes united Lower Egypt (referring to the river delta region of the Nile River), and Upper Egypt (everything south of the delta).
Canterbury Cathedral, England - Archaeology and the Great Churches of the World
The Canterbury Cathedral is probably among the most famous church edifices in the world, partly because of its famous archbishops including St. Augustine, Thomas Cranmer, and Thomas Becket, the last of which was murdered in it in 1170 AD.
The Canterbury Cathedral is probably among the most famous church edifices in the world, partly because of its famous archbishops including St. Augustine, Thomas Cranmer, and Thomas Becket, the last of which was murdered in it in 1170 AD.
Shi Huangdi's Tomb (China)
The emperor Shi Huangdi [246-210 BC] was the Tiger of Qin, the first emperor of China, who unified the warring states into one group; his tomb includes the fabulous terra cotta army.
The emperor Shi Huangdi [246-210 BC] was the Tiger of Qin, the first emperor of China, who unified the warring states into one group; his tomb includes the fabulous terra cotta army.
Hominin
Over the last few years, the word "hominin" has crept into the public news stories about our human ancestors. This is not a misspelling for hominid; this reflects an evolutionary change in the understanding of what it means to be human.
Over the last few years, the word "hominin" has crept into the public news stories about our human ancestors. This is not a misspelling for hominid; this reflects an evolutionary change in the understanding of what it means to be human.
Pigs - When and Where were Pigs Domesticated?
Pigs were first domesticated at least about 9,000 years ago, in central Asia.
Pigs were first domesticated at least about 9,000 years ago, in central Asia.
Hunter Gatherers
Hunter gatherers is the name anthropologists have given to people who rely on a combined living of hunting game and gathering root vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Hunting and gathering was the lifestyle of all human beings until the invention of agriculture about 8000 years ago; and, to state it simply, hunter-gatherers hunt game and collect plant foods.
Hunter gatherers is the name anthropologists have given to people who rely on a combined living of hunting game and gathering root vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Hunting and gathering was the lifestyle of all human beings until the invention of agriculture about 8000 years ago; and, to state it simply, hunter-gatherers hunt game and collect plant foods.
Indus Civilization
The Indus civilization (also known as the Harappan Civilization, the Indus-Sarasvati or Hakra Civilization) is one of the oldest societies we know of, including over 2600 known archaeological sites located along the Indus and Sarasvati rivers in Pakistan and India
The Indus civilization (also known as the Harappan Civilization, the Indus-Sarasvati or Hakra Civilization) is one of the oldest societies we know of, including over 2600 known archaeological sites located along the Indus and Sarasvati rivers in Pakistan and India
The New Seven Wonders: The Great Wall of China
The New Seven Wonders: The Great Wall of China
The New Seven Wonders: The Great Wall of China
Petrela Castle, Tirana, Albania
Petrela Castle, Tirana, Albania
Petrela Castle, Tirana, Albania
Discovery of Troy
Heinrich Schliemann, that quintessential archaeologist of the 19th century, claimed to have discovered the real site of Troy. But did he?
Heinrich Schliemann, that quintessential archaeologist of the 19th century, claimed to have discovered the real site of Troy. But did he?
Unknown Empires
Everyone knows of some ancient civilizations, either from World History classes in school, from books or films, or from television specials on the Discovery Channel, the BBC or Public Broadcasting. Ancient Rome, Ancient Greece, Ancient Egypt, all of these are covered again and again in our books, magazines, and television shows. But there are so many interesting, less well-known civilizations! Here's an admittedly biased selection of some of them and why they are not to be forgotten.
Everyone knows of some ancient civilizations, either from World History classes in school, from books or films, or from television specials on the Discovery Channel, the BBC or Public Broadcasting. Ancient Rome, Ancient Greece, Ancient Egypt, all of these are covered again and again in our books, magazines, and television shows. But there are so many interesting, less well-known civilizations! Here's an admittedly biased selection of some of them and why they are not to be forgotten.
Careers in Archaeology
What kind of real-life career choices do I have with a degree in archaeology?
What kind of real-life career choices do I have with a degree in archaeology?
Hieroglyphic Symbols
Hieroglyphic symbols are a form of writing which uses little pictures to represent actions or things.
Hieroglyphic symbols are a form of writing which uses little pictures to represent actions or things.
Aztecs
Aztecs are the collective name given to seven Chichimec tribes of northern Mexico
Aztecs are the collective name given to seven Chichimec tribes of northern Mexico
Along the Silk Road
Archaeological investigations extend the known age of the ancient road connecting Asia and central Europe known as the Silk Road.
Archaeological investigations extend the known age of the ancient road connecting Asia and central Europe known as the Silk Road.
New Seven Wonders: The Roman Colosseum (Italy)
New Seven Wonders: The Roman Colosseum (Italy)
New Seven Wonders: The Roman Colosseum (Italy)
Pueblo Culture Bibliography
A brief bibliography of the Pueblo culture of the American Southwest.
A brief bibliography of the Pueblo culture of the American Southwest.
Oasis Theory
The Oasis Theory is a core concept in archaeology, referring to one of the main hypotheses about the origins of agriculture.
The Oasis Theory is a core concept in archaeology, referring to one of the main hypotheses about the origins of agriculture.
Deir el-Bahri
Hatshepsut's Deir el-Bahri (also spelled Deir el-Bahari) is one of the most beautiful temples in Egypt, built by the architects of Queen Hatshepsut, a pharaoh of the New Kingdom.
Hatshepsut's Deir el-Bahri (also spelled Deir el-Bahari) is one of the most beautiful temples in Egypt, built by the architects of Queen Hatshepsut, a pharaoh of the New Kingdom.
A.D. (or AD)
The initials A.D. (used with or without periods) is an abbreviation for the Latin "Anno Domini", which translates to "the Year of Our Lord," referring to years after the birth of Jesus Christ.
The initials A.D. (used with or without periods) is an abbreviation for the Latin "Anno Domini", which translates to "the Year of Our Lord," referring to years after the birth of Jesus Christ.
Maya Lady Xok
This Maya carving of ruler Lady Xok depicts her experience of a supernatural vision after performing a sacrifice of her own blood. Like many ancient American rulers, Maya elite like Lady Xok, acted not only as political rulers of their community, but also the spiritual ones.
This Maya carving of ruler Lady Xok depicts her experience of a supernatural vision after performing a sacrifice of her own blood. Like many ancient American rulers, Maya elite like Lady Xok, acted not only as political rulers of their community, but also the spiritual ones.
Mycenae (Greece)
The archaeological site of Mycenae, located on the steep slopes of the island of Euboea in Greece, was part of the Aegean cultures of the Argolid.
The archaeological site of Mycenae, located on the steep slopes of the island of Euboea in Greece, was part of the Aegean cultures of the Argolid.
Ottoman Bridge, Mes, Albania
Ottoman Bridge, Mes, Albania
Ottoman Bridge, Mes, Albania
Domestication of the Cat
Although available evidence makes it difficult to say, the modern day cat was permanently domesticated about 4000 years ago, in Egypt.
Although available evidence makes it difficult to say, the modern day cat was permanently domesticated about 4000 years ago, in Egypt.
Field Schools
Want to gain experience in archaeology? Thinking about a career or just looking for some interesting things to do with your summer vacation? Then the field school is for you.
Want to gain experience in archaeology? Thinking about a career or just looking for some interesting things to do with your summer vacation? Then the field school is for you.
Writing Samples
Sending along a sample of your writing will show your prospective school how well you communicate--something that is very useful in archaeology.
Sending along a sample of your writing will show your prospective school how well you communicate--something that is very useful in archaeology.
Pompeii, Italy
The Roman city of Pompeii was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 76 AD: But you already knew that, didn't you?
The Roman city of Pompeii was destroyed by a volcanic eruption in 76 AD: But you already knew that, didn't you?
Babylon (Iraq)
The archaeological site of Babylon was the capital of a small city state of Mesopotamia, named Babylonia, located in what is now Iraq, near the modern town of Hilla.
The archaeological site of Babylon was the capital of a small city state of Mesopotamia, named Babylonia, located in what is now Iraq, near the modern town of Hilla.
American Civilizations
The continents of North and South America were 'discovered' by the European civilizations in the late 15th century AD, but their civilizations were vast and complex long before the first European landed. The following are a taste of the complexity of the civilizations of ancient America.
The continents of North and South America were 'discovered' by the European civilizations in the late 15th century AD, but their civilizations were vast and complex long before the first European landed. The following are a taste of the complexity of the civilizations of ancient America.
Franklin's Mastodon Tooth
A tooth from the ancient extinct elephant known as a mastodon was recovered from beneath the floor of a building that at one time belonged to Benjamin Franklin. This artifact undoubtedly belonged to Franklin, and it represents Franklin's role in the scientific understanding of the process of evolution. A podcast tour, contributed by Patrice L. Jeppson the historical archaeology consultant to the Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary Consortium.
A tooth from the ancient extinct elephant known as a mastodon was recovered from beneath the floor of a building that at one time belonged to Benjamin Franklin. This artifact undoubtedly belonged to Franklin, and it represents Franklin's role in the scientific understanding of the process of evolution. A podcast tour, contributed by Patrice L. Jeppson the historical archaeology consultant to the Benjamin Franklin Tercentenary Consortium.
Knossos (Greece)
The location of Knossos, reported by Homer to be the site of the palace of the legendary King Minos, Daedalus, and the Labyrinth, is on the island of Crete.
The location of Knossos, reported by Homer to be the site of the palace of the legendary King Minos, Daedalus, and the Labyrinth, is on the island of Crete.
Homeland
Homeland: An Archaeologist's View of Yellowstone Country's Past is a strange, rangy book, and at the same time a perfect expression of the cowboy archaeologist.
Homeland: An Archaeologist's View of Yellowstone Country's Past is a strange, rangy book, and at the same time a perfect expression of the cowboy archaeologist.
Cliff Palace at Mesa Verde
In The Ancient Americas exhibition, visitors will be able to walk through a recreation of a Puebloan household similar to the one shown here at Mesa Verde National Park. Visitors can learn more about how ancient Pueblo people lived, ate and slept through a variety of hands-on interactives.
In The Ancient Americas exhibition, visitors will be able to walk through a recreation of a Puebloan household similar to the one shown here at Mesa Verde National Park. Visitors can learn more about how ancient Pueblo people lived, ate and slept through a variety of hands-on interactives.
Nara, Japan
The ancient city of Nara, Japan, is nearing its 1300th anniversary, and the beauty of its intact architecture and the continued integrity of the ancient city's ruins is the result of cautious highway construction policies that take history and archaeology seriously.
The ancient city of Nara, Japan, is nearing its 1300th anniversary, and the beauty of its intact architecture and the continued integrity of the ancient city's ruins is the result of cautious highway construction policies that take history and archaeology seriously.
Domestication of Cattle
Although evidence for hunting wild forms of cattle exists at archaeological sites dated to our earliest days on the planet, herding cattle was first accomplished in Western Asia by about 6000 BC, and in perhaps the eastern Sahara desert about 1000 years earlier.
Although evidence for hunting wild forms of cattle exists at archaeological sites dated to our earliest days on the planet, herding cattle was first accomplished in Western Asia by about 6000 BC, and in perhaps the eastern Sahara desert about 1000 years earlier.
Durres, Albania
Durres, Albania
Durres, Albania
Out of Africa Hypothesis
The Out of Africa or African Replacement Hypothesis argues that every living human being is descended from a small group in Africa.
The Out of Africa or African Replacement Hypothesis argues that every living human being is descended from a small group in Africa.
Caral
A collection of sites in the Supe Valley of Peru are proving to be the ancestral source of the Inca and other later civilizations of South and Central America. Caral and the other Supe Valley sites promise to teach us why people choose to become urban dwellers.
A collection of sites in the Supe Valley of Peru are proving to be the ancestral source of the Inca and other later civilizations of South and Central America. Caral and the other Supe Valley sites promise to teach us why people choose to become urban dwellers.
Sechin Alto (Peru)
The archaeological site called Sechin Alto is the capital of a pre-Incan culture located on the northwest coast of Peru, occupied between approximately 1800-900 BC.
The archaeological site called Sechin Alto is the capital of a pre-Incan culture located on the northwest coast of Peru, occupied between approximately 1800-900 BC.
Olmec Civilization
The Olmec civilization is the name given to a sophisticated central American culture between 1200 and 400 BC.
The Olmec civilization is the name given to a sophisticated central American culture between 1200 and 400 BC.
Deir el Medina (Egypt)
Deir el-Medina is a New Kingdom (18th dynasty) residential village of the workmen who built and decorated Egyptian tombs in the Valley of the Kings.
Deir el-Medina is a New Kingdom (18th dynasty) residential village of the workmen who built and decorated Egyptian tombs in the Valley of the Kings.
Little Bighorn
The Battle of Little Bighorn was the site of the first intensive battlefield archaeology studies, conducted between 1985 and 1989, by Richard Fox, Douglas Scott and Melissa Connor who investigated the dry hills of southeastern Montana for cartridge cases, bullets, army equipment, clothing fragments and skeletal remains: all that was left of George Armstrong Custer and his doomed 7th calvary.
The Battle of Little Bighorn was the site of the first intensive battlefield archaeology studies, conducted between 1985 and 1989, by Richard Fox, Douglas Scott and Melissa Connor who investigated the dry hills of southeastern Montana for cartridge cases, bullets, army equipment, clothing fragments and skeletal remains: all that was left of George Armstrong Custer and his doomed 7th calvary.
The Islamic Historian Abu'l Qasim - Islamic Lustreware
Abu'l Qasim was a historian and member of the guild of potters responsible for the manufacture of Islamic lustrewares in the 13th and 14th centuries.
Abu'l Qasim was a historian and member of the guild of potters responsible for the manufacture of Islamic lustrewares in the 13th and 14th centuries.
Chichen Itza - Wall of Skulls (Tzompantli), Chichen Itza, Mexico
Chichen Itza - Wall of Skulls (Tzompantli) - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Chichen Itza - Wall of Skulls (Tzompantli) - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Arrowhead Myths and Facts
Arrowheads are among the most easily recognized artifact in the world. These little tools are often the subject of a number of myths, legends and misconceptions; here is a description of the five top myths and the five top unknown facts about this ubiquitous stone tool.
Arrowheads are among the most easily recognized artifact in the world. These little tools are often the subject of a number of myths, legends and misconceptions; here is a description of the five top myths and the five top unknown facts about this ubiquitous stone tool.
Baltic Amber
Baltic amber is a fossilized tree resin which formed about 60 million years ago and was actively traded beginning in the Mesolithic period of Europe.
Baltic amber is a fossilized tree resin which formed about 60 million years ago and was actively traded beginning in the Mesolithic period of Europe.
Angkor (Cambodia)
The Angkor Civilization (or Khmer Civilization) is the name given to an important civilization of southeast Asia, including all of Cambodia and southeastern Thailand and northern Vietnam
The Angkor Civilization (or Khmer Civilization) is the name given to an important civilization of southeast Asia, including all of Cambodia and southeastern Thailand and northern Vietnam
Horses
The modern domesticated horse (Equus caballus) is spread throughout the world and is among the most diverse creatures on the planet.
The modern domesticated horse (Equus caballus) is spread throughout the world and is among the most diverse creatures on the planet.
Khafre's Pyramid at Giza
Khafre's Pyramid at Giza
Khafre's Pyramid at Giza
Rozafa Castle, Shkodra, Albania
Rozafa Castle, Shkodra, Albania
Rozafa Castle, Shkodra, Albania
Sanchi Ruins, India
Sanchi Ruins, India
Sanchi Ruins, India
Fig Trees
Archaeological investigations have identified parthenocarpic fig fruits in six sites in the greater Mediterranean Sea region dated between 11,700 and 10,500 years ago, leading researchers to believe this is the earliest known indication of fig domestication in the world.
Archaeological investigations have identified parthenocarpic fig fruits in six sites in the greater Mediterranean Sea region dated between 11,700 and 10,500 years ago, leading researchers to believe this is the earliest known indication of fig domestication in the world.
Greek amphitheatre, Butrint, Albania
Greek amphitheatre, Butrint, Albania
Greek amphitheatre, Butrint, Albania
Letters of Reference
Should you use a letter from an employer as a referee in your graduate student application?
Should you use a letter from an employer as a referee in your graduate student application?
Lucy
Lucy is the name of the nearly complete skeleton of an Australopithecus afarensis, found in 1974 at AL 288, a site in the Hadar archaeological region on the Afar Triangle of Ethiopia.
Lucy is the name of the nearly complete skeleton of an Australopithecus afarensis, found in 1974 at AL 288, a site in the Hadar archaeological region on the Afar Triangle of Ethiopia.
Google Earth and Archaeology
Google Earth, software that uses high resolution satellite images of the entire planet to allow the user to get an incredible moving aerial view of our world, has stimulated some serious applications in archaeology--and seriously good fun for fans of archaeology.
Google Earth, software that uses high resolution satellite images of the entire planet to allow the user to get an incredible moving aerial view of our world, has stimulated some serious applications in archaeology--and seriously good fun for fans of archaeology.
The Kingdom of Kush
After classical Egypt, the first civilization in Africa was called Kush or Kushite, located on the third cataract of the Nile River in what is now the Sudan.
After classical Egypt, the first civilization in Africa was called Kush or Kushite, located on the third cataract of the Nile River in what is now the Sudan.
History of Archaeology
The history of archaeology is a long and checkered one. If there is anything archaeology teaches us, it is to look to the past to learn from our mistakes and, if we can find any, our successes. What we today think of as the science of archaeology has its roots in religion and treasure hunting, and born out of centuries of curiosity about the past and where we all came from.
The history of archaeology is a long and checkered one. If there is anything archaeology teaches us, it is to look to the past to learn from our mistakes and, if we can find any, our successes. What we today think of as the science of archaeology has its roots in religion and treasure hunting, and born out of centuries of curiosity about the past and where we all came from.
Pont du Gard, France
The Pont du Gard is an aqueduct built by the Romans between 40 and 60 BC, to take public water across the Gard river.
The Pont du Gard is an aqueduct built by the Romans between 40 and 60 BC, to take public water across the Gard river.
Clovis People
The Clovis culture is the earliest well-established human culture in the North American continent
The Clovis culture is the earliest well-established human culture in the North American continent
Iceman (Italy)
The Iceman was found in the Alps between Italy and Austria in 1991, and are the remains of a Bronze Age hunter lost in a storm between 3350-3300 BC
The Iceman was found in the Alps between Italy and Austria in 1991, and are the remains of a Bronze Age hunter lost in a storm between 3350-3300 BC
Berat Orthodox Church, Albania
Berat Orthodox Church, Albania
Berat Orthodox Church, Albania
Settlement Patterns
One of the core concepts of the study of archaeology is settlement pattern studies.
One of the core concepts of the study of archaeology is settlement pattern studies.
Hagia Sophia, Turkey - Archaeology and the Great Churches of the World
The magnificent Hagia Sophia was built by the Byzantine emperor Justinian between the years AD 532 and 537, and achieved its final form in 563 AD.
The magnificent Hagia Sophia was built by the Byzantine emperor Justinian between the years AD 532 and 537, and achieved its final form in 563 AD.
Archaeology Defined
What is Archaeology? The study of archaeology has been defined in a number of silly and serious ways. Here's a collection of pithy quotes from archaeologists and non-archaeologists.
What is Archaeology? The study of archaeology has been defined in a number of silly and serious ways. Here's a collection of pithy quotes from archaeologists and non-archaeologists.
Cahokia Mounds, Illinois
Located in Collinsville, Illinois where the Illinois, Mississippi, and Missouri rivers intersect, Cahokia was the largest community north of Mexico in the ancient Americas. It is well-known for its more than 120 massive mounds of earth that were used as foundations for public buildings and homes of high-ranking officials, the largest mound is over one hundred feet tall. Visitors will be able to view a scale model of the site in the exhibition The Ancient Americas.
Located in Collinsville, Illinois where the Illinois, Mississippi, and Missouri rivers intersect, Cahokia was the largest community north of Mexico in the ancient Americas. It is well-known for its more than 120 massive mounds of earth that were used as foundations for public buildings and homes of high-ranking officials, the largest mound is over one hundred feet tall. Visitors will be able to view a scale model of the site in the exhibition The Ancient Americas.
Mehrgarh (Pakistan)
Mehrgarh is a Neolithic (7000-3200 BC) site on the Kachi plain of Baluchistan, Pakistan, and one of the earliest sites with evidence of farming (wheat and barley) and herding (cattle, sheep and goats) in south Asia.
Mehrgarh is a Neolithic (7000-3200 BC) site on the Kachi plain of Baluchistan, Pakistan, and one of the earliest sites with evidence of farming (wheat and barley) and herding (cattle, sheep and goats) in south Asia.
Dancing Girl
A 4500 year old statuette of a dancing girl from the ancient Harappan town of Mohenjo-Daro dances across space and time into our imaginations.
A 4500 year old statuette of a dancing girl from the ancient Harappan town of Mohenjo-Daro dances across space and time into our imaginations.
St. Paul's Cathedral, London, England - Archaeology and the Great Churches of the World
St. Paul's Cathedral, designed by architect Christopher Wren and built between 1675 and 1710, is the fourth church on this site overlooking London.
St. Paul's Cathedral, designed by architect Christopher Wren and built between 1675 and 1710, is the fourth church on this site overlooking London.
Lustreware History - Islamic Lustreware Origins and Techniques
The earliest lustres were most likely made in Iraq during the reign of Harun al Rashid (AD 766-809). The history of lustres suggests that until Abu'l Qasim published his book about 1300, the technique was a closely-guarded secret of one family or guild of potters.
The earliest lustres were most likely made in Iraq during the reign of Harun al Rashid (AD 766-809). The history of lustres suggests that until Abu'l Qasim published his book about 1300, the technique was a closely-guarded secret of one family or guild of potters.
Chichen Itza - The Nunnery Annex at Chichen Itza, Mexico
Chichen Itza - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Chichen Itza - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Why Go?
Deciding to go to graduate school is one of the tougher decisions you'll have to make as a beginning archaeologist. To be a career archaeologist, you'll need that advanced degree; but having it may not be the best ticket to another career. Here are some suggestions.
Deciding to go to graduate school is one of the tougher decisions you'll have to make as a beginning archaeologist. To be a career archaeologist, you'll need that advanced degree; but having it may not be the best ticket to another career. Here are some suggestions.
L'Anse aux Meadows
Archaeological excavations in Newfoundland, Canada, reveal evidence of a failed Viking colony on the Atlantic shore of the American continent.
Archaeological excavations in Newfoundland, Canada, reveal evidence of a failed Viking colony on the Atlantic shore of the American continent.
What is Ecotourism
Ecotourism is not simply adventure travel or travel off the beaten path, but rather a specific type of travel with conditions set by an international community.
Ecotourism is not simply adventure travel or travel off the beaten path, but rather a specific type of travel with conditions set by an international community.
San Agustin (Colombia)
The San Agustin archaeological park in Colombia includes a wide variety of stone sculptures carved between AD 100 and 1200.
The San Agustin archaeological park in Colombia includes a wide variety of stone sculptures carved between AD 100 and 1200.
Student's Guide to Archaeology
The science of archaeology (also spelled archeology) originated in the 19th century of Western society, although its roots are deep in antiquity. Here's an introduction to the topic, part of Archaeology 101.
The science of archaeology (also spelled archeology) originated in the 19th century of Western society, although its roots are deep in antiquity. Here's an introduction to the topic, part of Archaeology 101.
Aztec Civilization
The Aztec civilization was the last great precolumbian civilization on the American continents. This study guide is a capsule description of the important elements of the Aztecs, some facts and figures, some study questions, and a list of suggested readings.
The Aztec civilization was the last great precolumbian civilization on the American continents. This study guide is a capsule description of the important elements of the Aztecs, some facts and figures, some study questions, and a list of suggested readings.
The Tools of the Trade: The Total Station Transit
A Total Station transit helps an archaeologist make an accurate map of an archaeological site
A Total Station transit helps an archaeologist make an accurate map of an archaeological site
Stone Tools Types
A short list of stone tool types and definitions used by archaeologists
A short list of stone tool types and definitions used by archaeologists
Grad Schools - Southeast US
Universities in the American Southeast that teach advanced degrees, including master's and doctorates, to prospective archaeologists
Universities in the American Southeast that teach advanced degrees, including master's and doctorates, to prospective archaeologists
Australian Settlement
New mitochondrial data reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on May 7, 2007, supports the somewhat still controversial Australian colonization as having occurred at about 50,000 bp--and that it was a single founder population who were subsequently isolated from the rest of the world.
New mitochondrial data reported in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences on May 7, 2007, supports the somewhat still controversial Australian colonization as having occurred at about 50,000 bp--and that it was a single founder population who were subsequently isolated from the rest of the world.
Chichen Itza - Caracol (The Observatory), Chichen Itza, Mexico
Chichen Itza - Caracol - The Observatory - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Chichen Itza - Caracol - The Observatory - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Maya Civilization
The Maya Civilization occupied much of the central North American continent between 2500 BC and AD 1500.
The Maya Civilization occupied much of the central North American continent between 2500 BC and AD 1500.
Mesopotamian Cylinder Seal
Mesopotamian Cylinder Seal, circa 2350-2150 BC
Mesopotamian Cylinder Seal, circa 2350-2150 BC
Map of the Dead Sea Scroll Caves and Qumran
A map of the location of the Dead Sea Scroll Caves and the site of Khirbet Qumran
A map of the location of the Dead Sea Scroll Caves and the site of Khirbet Qumran
Mammoths
Mammoths and mastodons are both extinct forms of elephant that roamed the world before the end of the Pleistocene period.
Mammoths and mastodons are both extinct forms of elephant that roamed the world before the end of the Pleistocene period.
Black Death
The Black Death was the name given to an episode of the devastating bubonic plague in Europe between 1348 and 1351.
The Black Death was the name given to an episode of the devastating bubonic plague in Europe between 1348 and 1351.
Tula (Mexico)
The archaeological ruins of Tula (also called Tula de Hidalgo), are located in the Mexican state of Hildalgo about 50 kilometers northwest of Mexico City.
The archaeological ruins of Tula (also called Tula de Hidalgo), are located in the Mexican state of Hildalgo about 50 kilometers northwest of Mexico City.
The New Seven Wonders: Machu Picchu (Peru)
The New Seven Wonders: Machu Picchu (Peru)
The New Seven Wonders: Machu Picchu (Peru)
Careers in Archaeology Data...
The Careers in Archaeology Database includes descriptions of some of the career paths a fascination with archaeology might lead you into; and how you might find your way down those paths.
The Careers in Archaeology Database includes descriptions of some of the career paths a fascination with archaeology might lead you into; and how you might find your way down those paths.
American CRM
A list of American cultural resource firms that conduct archaeological investigations in the American northeast and northwest, and outside of the continental USA.
A list of American cultural resource firms that conduct archaeological investigations in the American northeast and northwest, and outside of the continental USA.
Hittites
The Hittite empire ruled much of Anatolia--roughly what today is Turkey--between about 1340-1200 BC.
The Hittite empire ruled much of Anatolia--roughly what today is Turkey--between about 1340-1200 BC.
Angkor Wat (Cambodia)
Angkor Wat is a temple complex and capital city of the Angkor (or Khmer) civilization in Cambodia.
Angkor Wat is a temple complex and capital city of the Angkor (or Khmer) civilization in Cambodia.
Radiocarbon Dating Method
Radiocarbon dating uses the amount of Carbon 14 (C14) available in living creatures as a measuring stick.
Radiocarbon dating uses the amount of Carbon 14 (C14) available in living creatures as a measuring stick.
Archaeology Quiz: Mexico Culture History
Archaeology Quiz: Mexico Culture History
Archaeology Quiz: Mexico Culture History
Inca Empire Study Guide
The Inca empire was the largest pre-hispanic empire of South America when it was 'discovered' by the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century AD.
The Inca empire was the largest pre-hispanic empire of South America when it was 'discovered' by the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century AD.
Monumental Architecture
Monumental architecture, at an archaeological site, refers to large man-made structures of stone or earth.
Monumental architecture, at an archaeological site, refers to large man-made structures of stone or earth.
Chalcolithic
The Chalcolithic is the name given to the period in the Near East and Europe after the Neolithic and before the Bronze Age, between about 4500 and 3500 BC.
The Chalcolithic is the name given to the period in the Near East and Europe after the Neolithic and before the Bronze Age, between about 4500 and 3500 BC.
Zapotec Monte Alban
Monte Alban was the capital city of the Zapotec Civilization, sited 1400 meters above sea level in the Valley of Oaxaca of central Mexico. The Zapotecs and their amazing city flourished between about 500 BC and 1521 AD.
Monte Alban was the capital city of the Zapotec Civilization, sited 1400 meters above sea level in the Valley of Oaxaca of central Mexico. The Zapotecs and their amazing city flourished between about 500 BC and 1521 AD.
Nazca Vessel, Ica Region, Peru
This vessel, made by the Nazca people of southern Peru, shows a man grasping plants in both hands. Prior to AD 300, Nazca pottery primarily featured similar nature motifs; however, around AD 300, artistic themes began to change in style and increasingly reflected scenes of violence.
This vessel, made by the Nazca people of southern Peru, shows a man grasping plants in both hands. Prior to AD 300, Nazca pottery primarily featured similar nature motifs; however, around AD 300, artistic themes began to change in style and increasingly reflected scenes of violence.
Grad Schools - US Southwest
Graduate schools offering MA and/or PhD degrees to students of archaeology, located in the American southwest and pacific.
Graduate schools offering MA and/or PhD degrees to students of archaeology, located in the American southwest and pacific.
Stable Isotopes for Dummies
This essay is a vastly over-simplified discussion of why stable isotope research works. If you are a stable isotope researcher, the imprecision of the description will drive you mad; but it is a fairly accurate description of the natural processes used by stable isotope researchers today.
This essay is a vastly over-simplified discussion of why stable isotope research works. If you are a stable isotope researcher, the imprecision of the description will drive you mad; but it is a fairly accurate description of the natural processes used by stable isotope researchers today.
St. Catherine's Monastery, Egypt - Archaeology and the Great Churches of the World
St. Catherine's Monastery is a Byzantine church built at the foot of Mount Sinai, Egypt between 548 and 565 AD.
St. Catherine's Monastery is a Byzantine church built at the foot of Mount Sinai, Egypt between 548 and 565 AD.
Sacred Cenote (Well of the Sacrifices), Chichen Itza, Mexico Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Chichen Itza - A Walking Tour of Chichen Itza - Ancient Maya Ruins of Mexico
Lost Race Myth
The lost race or moundbuilder myth is one created by incoming European settlers of the North American continent who could not, or did not want to, believe that the mounds had been built by the Native American peoples they were displacing.
The lost race or moundbuilder myth is one created by incoming European settlers of the North American continent who could not, or did not want to, believe that the mounds had been built by the Native American peoples they were displacing.
Towton Battlefield
The bloodiest battle ever fought in England was part of the War of the Roses, on Palm Sunday, in the year 1461. Carried on between the Yorkist King Edward IV, and the Duke of Somerset, fighting on the Lancaster side for Henry VI and Queen Margaret, Towton is reputed to have killed between 20,000 and 28,000 people.
The bloodiest battle ever fought in England was part of the War of the Roses, on Palm Sunday, in the year 1461. Carried on between the Yorkist King Edward IV, and the Duke of Somerset, fighting on the Lancaster side for Henry VI and Queen Margaret, Towton is reputed to have killed between 20,000 and 28,000 people.