Erosion/deposition modelling on evaluating and predicting artefact assemblies, Zakynthos, Greece

Abstract

Erosion/deposition was investigated on an archaeologically rich hill (Kamaroti) in southern Zakynthos, Greece. It was believed that the distribution pattern of archaeological artefacts was linked to erosion and deposition in the research area. Investigation took place by usage of a modified version of the Morgan-Morgan-Finney erosion model (MMF-model) to quantify erosion rates and look at the spatial distribution of erosion/deposition. The model was applied in a GIS-environment. Two DEM’s were used, one based on interpolation of digitized 4m elevation lines, and a very detailed DEM based on differential GPS measurements. Model results show that erosion/deposition on Kamaroti is fairly limited. This is in concurrence with results from similar types of studies on erosion/deposition in terraced olive orchards. While particle detachment by rain drop is relatively high due to the intense rainfall regime, transport capacity of the generated runoff was estimated low due the terraced layout and crop management on the hill. Artefacts are uncovered on the surface, but transportation is limited. Probably soil erosion has been limited throughout history in the entire research area. The only area were intense erosion has been taking place is probably related to human settlement in historical times.