Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
I
NTRODUCTION
The study by archaeologists of large stone or megalith transportation by
prehistoric societies is often restricted by limited physical evidence. The
known evidence will frequently show the stones were retrieved over long
distances, across difficult and variable terrain. These considerations influence
the transportation methods that could have been employed, the routes used and
the time needed to complete these tasks. Most transportation efforts are
affected by seasonal restrictions and manpower availability.
These considerations impose the need to manage, collate and analyse
extensive spatial data sets to establish starting points for the archaeological
investigation. Further analysis may then be possible using other methodologies
and information sources. These analyses would include replication
experiments, ethnographic observations and environmental data linked by
mathematical models. All megalith transportation efforts are constrained by
slope gradient limitations, which define viable movement of stones. Analysis
of environmental factors using Geographic Information Systems (GIS),
incorporating human physiology capability and slope gradient analysis as a
constraint allows viable transportation routes to be identified. This paper
describes how we established a database, applied the GIS analysis, while
identifying its limitations and compatibility concerns between early analysis
and those that followed.
The study of megalith transport in ancient societies provides an insight
into various elements of these societies such as the necessary economies to
support this activity and the relationship between the sculpture and political or
hierarchical status of individuals within the society.
Replication experiments are often limited to specific examples (Cyphers,
2006, Richards and Whitby, 1997) and so require a methodology that can be
used to synthesize relevant factors. Establishing how the transportation was
done and where, is often the subject of considerable debate hence the use of
slope gradient analysis to define both method and routes is important.
In theory massive weights can be moved by manpower alone; however in
reality these loads are limited by the hauling teams' ability to co-ordinate their
power. Richards' experiment (Richards & Whitby, 1997) suggested in theory
200 persons were needed for a 40 tonne stone to be moved uphill on a gradient
of 1 in 20. In practice 130 people were used, while only 60 were needed for
downhill hauling or control (Richards and Whitby, 1997).
The experiment described by Richards & Whitby, (1997) concluded that
progress of approximately 1 km per day on level ground can be expected.
