Lecture: Micromorphology as a Tool for Integrative and Contextual Research in Archaeology

Archaeological research has been revolutionized by micromorphology, a technique that involves microscopic examination of soils and sediments. This method offers detailed insights into how archaeological sites were formed, human activities, and environmental interactions. By analyzing undisturbed soil samples in thin sections, micromorphology preserves the spatial relationships and composition of archaeological deposits, allowing for high-resolution study of microstratigraphy, material changes, and depositional events. This technique is particularly useful in distinguishing between human-made and natural sedimentary patterns, enabling researchers to reconstruct past landscapes with remarkable temporal accuracy. Micromorphology has wide-ranging applications in archaeology, including the study of living spaces, waste areas, and burial sites. For example, micromorphological analyses at various archaeological locations worldwide have yielded valuable information about ancient burial customs, fire-related events, and other human-induced processes. When combined with other methods such as radiocarbon dating, geochemical analysis, and sedimentary ancient DNA (sedaDNA), micromorphology significantly enhances our comprehension of how humans interacted with their environment and their cultural practices. The combination of field observations and microscopic data serves as a powerful analytical tool in archaeological investigations.

Please follow the registration link for virtual participation.