Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is a frequently used non-invasive method to explore and map beneath the surface. We typically think of GPR as primarily a construction tool, used either in commercial construction sites or for residential projects such as private utility locating. But the uses of GPR are not limited to these cases. Among the many useful applications of GPR is historical preservation and archaeology.
GPR in Archaeology
Historical preservation requires delicate handling and precise methods to uncover and protect the past. One of the primary benefits of GPR in archaeology is its non-invasive nature. Radar tools allow archaeologists to see beneath the surface before ever putting a shovel in the ground. This approach not only preserves the integrity of the site but also allows for a more targeted and efficient excavation process.
The applications in historical preservation are broad. GPR has been used to locate unmarked graves, ancient foundations, burial mounds, and other archaeological features. In some cases, GPR has even revealed entire hidden landscapes beneath the ground, such as ancient roads, walls, and settlements. This ability to “see” beneath the surface without disturbing it is also crucial in sites of cultural or religious significance, where excavation might be restricted or undesirable.
Case Studies: GPR in Action
GPR has been instrumental in several high-profile archaeological discoveries. One notable example is the use of GPR in uncovering the remains of Richard III of England. The location of his grave had been lost to history, but GPR allowed researchers to pinpoint the site beneath a parking lot in Leicester, leading to the eventual excavation and confirmation of his remains.
Another example is the use of GPR in Egyptology. In the Valley of the Kings, GPR has helped researchers identify potential new tombs and chambers. The technology has also been used to map out the extent of ancient Egyptian cities buried beneath the sand, providing insights into urban planning and daily life in ancient Egypt.
In the Americas, GPR has been utilized to study ancient Native American sites, such as burial mounds and village sites. This has enabled archaeologists to understand the social and cultural practices of these communities without disturbing the sacred grounds.
ART Locating has had the opportunity to contribute to historical preservation with GPR as well. In 2017, we assisted in uncovering the missing remains of a 1963 church bombing victim in Birmingham, Alabama.
GPR in Historical Preservation: Protecting Cultural Heritage
Many historical sites are in urban areas where development pressures pose a risk to their preservation. GPR allows preservationists to document and protect these sites by providing detailed information about what lies beneath the surface. This information can be used to guide construction projects, ensuring that important historical features are preserved or avoided.
For example, GPR has been used to locate and document old building foundations, tunnels, and other structures that are no longer visible at the surface. This data can inform decisions about site management, restoration, and conservation. In some cases, GPR has even been used to reconstruct lost landscapes, providing a visual representation of how a site looked in the past, such as the landscape around Stonehenge in England and Viking settlements in Scandinavia.
In addition to protecting built heritage, GPR is also used to preserve landscapes of historical significance. For example, battlefields, ancient roads, and agricultural terraces can be mapped using GPR, allowing for a better understanding of historical land use and helping to protect these areas from modern development.
GPR has transformed the fields of archaeology and historical preservation by offering a non-invasive, accurate, and efficient method for exploring what lies beneath the ground. From uncovering ancient tombs to preserving historic landscapes, GPR is helping to ensure that our cultural heritage is not lost to time. As the technology continues to evolve, its role in safeguarding the past will only become more critical, allowing future generations to connect with their history in meaningful ways.
If you want to use GPR to assist in your historical preservation project, let’s talk!