Victoria AdolphusImagine being able to uncover the secrets of an ancient civilization that was previously hidden from view. Thanks to advances in drone technology, researchers have been able to map and explore a 3,000-year-old “mega fortress” in the Caucasus Mountains, revealing new insights into the lives of our ancient ancestors.
The Discovery
Located in the South Caucasus region, the fortress of Dmanisis Gora was first discovered in 2018 by a team of researchers from Cranfield University and the Georgian National Museum. Initial excavations revealed a fortified promontory between two deep gorges, but it wasn’t until the team used drone technology to map the site that they realized the true extent of the fortress.
The Power of Drone Technology
Using a DJI Phantom 4 RTK drone, the team was able to capture nearly 11,000 images of the site, which were then stitched together to create high-resolution digital elevation models and orthophotos. This allowed the team to identify subtle topographic features and create accurate maps of the fortification walls, graves, field systems, and other stone structures within the outer settlement.
A Much Larger Site Than Previously Thought
The results of the survey revealed that the site was more than 40 times larger than originally thought, with a large outer settlement defended by a 1km long fortification wall. The team was also able to identify patterns and changes in the landscape over time, including the impact of modern agriculture on the ancient settlement.
Implications for Understanding Ancient Societies
The discovery of Dmanisis Gora has significant implications for our understanding of ancient societies in the South Caucasus region. The site provides evidence of a complex and dynamic society, with intricate settlements that hint at seasonal interactions with mobile pastoral groups.
The Future of Archaeology
The use of drone technology in archaeology is revolutionizing the way we explore and understand ancient sites. As the technology continues to advance, we can expect to uncover even more secrets of the past and gain a deeper understanding of our ancient ancestors.
Share Your Thoughts
What do you think about the use of drone technology in archaeology? Share your comments below!
