Remotely sensed and geophysical data for nondestructive archaeological prospection

Remotely sensed and geophysical data can be effectively integrated through the use of geographical information systems (GIS). The role of GIS in the accurate mapping of an area of archaeological interest, prerequisite for a devising and effective excavation strategy, is well established. Multitemporal aerial photos at different scales and high-resolution magnetic data were acquired over the ancient Greek colony of Metaponto in Southern Italy (7^th C. BC). Aerial photos were converted to digital form and georeferenced using a GIS. Magnetic data were interpolated and processed to produce raster images. Radar satellite imagery and magnetic and electric geophysical data were acquired over the Eolic town of Kyme (Turkey), along the Aegean coast. All data were integrated and analyzed in the GIS environment to infer the buried archaeological features. For each site, a final digital map of the archaeological structures and relevant landforms was produced