Work

A remote sensing-based survey of archaeological/heritage sites near Kandahar, Afghanistan through publicly available satellite imagery

Year: 2021

Type: article

Abstract: Due to its conflict-ridden recent history, it has been difficult to launch major archaeological projects and advanced field research in Afghanistan during the last forty years. Lately, the proliferation of remote sensing methods, especially the increasing availability of satellite imagery, has allowed generating a much-needed impetus for documentation and monitoring of the heritage in Afghanistan. In this study, we present novel site data obtained through an examination of publicly available satellite imagery in the southwestern region of Kandahar. The sites presented here consist of a multitude of cultural heritage such as settlement mounds, architectural remains, religious monuments, fortresses, and traditional water management systems. We also discuss the advantages, as well as the drawbacks of remote sensing surveys for archaeological research in Afghanistan, and share our data to be employed in further research and cultural heritage management in the region.

Source: PLoS ONE

DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0259228

Authors: Mehmet Karaucak, Daniel Steiniger, Nikolaus Boroffka

Institution: Deutsches Archäologisches Institut, Eurasien-Abteilung

Language: English

Topic: Archaeological Research and Protection

Subfield: Archeology

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,749

Funder: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft