The stratigraphic biography of an archaeological site. Timing depositional events

Abstract

The stratigraphic sequence of an archaeological site constitutes its biography, which details what was deposited, when it was deposited, and how the deposition occurred. However, many current methods of recording archaeological stratigraphy do not allow for a full reconstruction of a site's biography. This paper introduces a theoretical framework for analysing a site's formation and deformation processes, emphasizing the integration of different temporal, spatial, geological, and archaeological information elements. This approach offers a way to study change and dynamics by deciphering successive episodes, depositional events, their temporal and causal ordering, and, when possible, the speed and rhythm of such depositions. The integration of micromorphological data and absolute dating can increase the chronological resolution of a site's biography by formally defining the temporal boundaries of depositional events. Additionally, the use of multidimensional geometric analysis of occupational floors and sedimentary volumes enhances the understanding of the complex relationships between stratigraphic depth and temporality. These tools enable archaeologists to create multidimensional visualizations, make inferences, and enhance interpretations of archaeological sites.