Preserving Archaeological Heritage
with Satellite Data
Ancient History - Modern Technology
Highlights
-
Non-Intrusive Monitoring: Detects displacement without physical interference with artifacts. 
-
Geohazard Assessment: Identifies risks such as subsidence or instability and reports findings to the Department of Antiquities. 
-
Proactive Preservation: Enables early restoration or stabilisation efforts to protect heritage sites.
Introduction
The DOMISI project, backed by the European Space Agency (ESA), addresses archaeological site monitoring challenges by utilising advanced satellite technologies to protect Cyprus's cultural heritage.
This initiative combines cutting-edge science with preservation efforts. By integrating satellite data and geotechnical insights, DOMISI offers a comprehensive understanding of ground movement and potential risks at archaeological sites, supporting proactive conservation strategies to safeguard these irreplaceable treasures for future generations.
The Importance of Monitoring Archaeological Sites
Preserving archaeological sites is crucial for understanding ancient civilisations, but it comes with challenges from natural and human-induced factors that threaten their structural integrity.
Monitoring these sites is essential for conservation and visitor safety. Balancing protection and minimising disturbance to artifacts requires innovative approaches.
Modern technology, particularly satellite-based remote sensing techniques like Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR), offers a revolutionary way to monitor archaeological sites without physical intrusion.
Challenges Facing Archaeological Sites
Natural Risks
Archaeological sites face natural geohazards such as:
-
Subsidence: Gradual ground sinking due to natural soil compaction or human activities like groundwater extraction.
-
Soil Erosion: Wind, rain, and water flow can erode the foundations of structures over time.
-
Vegetation Growth: Roots can infiltrate ancient walls and floors, destabilising the structures
Human Impacts
Human activity also poses significant risks: 
-
Urbanisation can exert pressure on nearby archaeological sites, altering the surrounding land and water table. 
-
Tourism, though economically beneficial, introduces wear and tear on fragile sites. 
-
Construction projects in the vicinity can lead to vibrations and disturbances that accelerate structural damage. 
Challenges Facing Archaeological Sites
The Need for Non-Intrusive Monitoring
Traditional monitoring methods, like ground-penetrating radar and physical inspections, are effective but can be invasive, potentially disturbing artifacts. Additionally, these techniques are labour-intensive, costly, and often focus on specific points, missing broader displacement trends across the site.
How Satellite Technology is Revolutionising Archaeological Monitoring
What is InSAR?
Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) is a satellite-based technology that measures ground displacement with millimetre-level accuracy by analysing radar signals to detect subtle changes in the Earth’s surface over time.
Key benefits of InSAR include:
-
Non-Intrusive Monitoring: No physical contact with the site, preserving artifacts.
-
Wide Coverage: Monitors large areas, providing comprehensive data instead of isolated points.
-
Historical Analysis: Satellite archives enable retrospective analysis of past ground movements.
-
Frequent Updates: Regular satellite passes allow for near-real-time monitoring.
Applications in the Domisi Project
Focusing on significant Ancient Greek and Roman archaeological sites in Cyprus, the DOMISI project employs InSAR to address the following objectives: 
-
Identify Ground Displacement: Pinpoint areas experiencing subsidence or uplift, which could indicate potential structural risks. 
-
Assess Susceptibility to Geohazards: Determine how factors like soil type, groundwater levels, and seismic activity impact the sites. 
-
Guide Restoration Efforts: Provide actionable insights to the Department of Antiquities for prioritising conservation measures. 
Case Study: Monitoring Ancient Ruins in Cyprus
Key Sites Under Observation
The DOMISI project encompasses several key archaeological sites, including:
-
Chirokitia: An ancient village with well-preserved Palaeolithic houses.
-
Paphos: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its ancient villas and intricate mosaics, where soil movement threatens preservation.
-
Amathus: An ancient city-state with significant ruins that need careful monitoring to address natural decay and urban encroachment.
Insights from InSAR analysis
The DOMISI project has used satellite data to reveal previously undetectable ground movement patterns, including:
-
Seasonal Ground Shifts: Changes in groundwater from irrigation linked to minor shifts, highlighting the need for better water management.
-
Localised Subsidence: Identification of high-risk zones within larger sites for targeted restoration efforts.
From the Stars to the Past
Key Sites Under Observation
The DOMISI project sets a precedent for using modern technology to address heritage conservation challenges, demonstrating that satellite monitoring can protect cultural landmarks worldwide.
Similar methods could benefit:
-
World Heritage Sites: Safeguarding landmarks like the Pyramids of Giza and the Great Wall of China from threats.
-
Urban Archaeology: Monitoring buried relics to prevent damage during construction.
-
Climate Change Mitigation: Assessing the impact of rising sea levels and extreme weather on coastal heritage sites.
Conclusion
The DOMISI project showcases the convergence of ancient history and modern technology to protect cultural heritage. By using satellite-based InSAR technology, Cyprus's archaeological treasures are monitored with unprecedented accuracy, ensuring their preservation for future generations.
This approach addresses current challenges and offers a roadmap for future conservation efforts. We hope more archaeological sites worldwide will benefit from such technologies.
Stay tuned for updates from the DOMISI project to see how satellite monitoring is transforming heritage preservation.
​
Want to learn more? Contact Geofem today to discover how InSAR can support your geotechnical needs.
