Geoarchaeology is a major branch of archaeological science at the
interfaces between geology, geography and archaeology, involving the
combined study of archaeological, soil and geomorphological records and
the recognition of how natural, climatic and human-induced processes
alter landscapes. The formation and modification of past soils, and
occupation sequences can be examined primarily through the use of soil
micromorphological techniques and various physical and geo-chemical
techniques.
This short text aims to explain some of the basics of geoarchaeological
approaches and research design used to tackle the investigation of
landscapes and settlement archaeology, and the application of soil
micromorphology to archaeological situations. The intention is to
present a basic handbook of good practice, with case studies and
examples, that any archaeologist or aspiring geoarchaeologist can use.