A unique archaeological site, dating back more than 3,500 years, has been discovered on the route of the modernization of the railway between Timisoara and Arad. Archaeologists from the National Museum of History found 21 important sites, including a 1,900-year-old sarmatic cemetery, a huge animal burial mound and clay dwellings. This is the biggest find of its kind in Romania, and such situations highlight the need for modern technologies, such as ground penetrating radar (GPR), which can transform the way these projects are approached.
An animal graveyard has been discovered. Photo: video capture
What is GPR technology and how does it work?
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) uses electromagnetic waves to detect and map underground structures. This technology makes it possible to identify the boundaries of archaeological sites, locate buried objects and provide a detailed three-dimensional map without affecting the surface layer.
Integrating a GPR system with a drone, such as the Zond Aero 500, brings numerous advantages. The drone plans and executes precise flights using UgCS software, and the results provide a clear picture of buried objects, even in difficult conditions.
How does GPR help in archaeological discoveries?
Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is an essential tool for archaeological discoveries, providing precise information about structures hidden underground. Here are some concrete examples:
- Site mapping: In the case of the Sarmatian cemetery discovered near Timisoara, a GPR could have created a detailed map of the clay dwellings and animal burials, clearly delineating the site boundaries before excavation. This approach would have prevented invasive interventions in sensitive areas.
- Heritage protection: Discovery of the 3,500-year-old clay structures would have been much more effective using GPR. It could have detected fragile objects without the risk of damage, allowing archaeologists to plan excavations carefully.
- Increased efficiency: GPR can quickly identify buried objects and structures. For example, the Zond Aero 500 has a penetration of up to 4 meters and can detect small objects up to 10 cm in diameter in average soil conditions. This technology would have significantly reduced the time needed for site delineation surveys.
Archaeological excavations near Timisoara. Photo: video capture
Impact on railway modernization works
Rail projects frequently face delays caused by archaeological discoveries. The use of GPR can greatly improve their management:
- Detecting obstacles before excavation: In the modernization works between Timisoara and Arad, a GPR could have identified underground structures in the sarmatic site before mechanized interventions, avoiding the accidental destruction of ancient tombs or dwellings.
- Reducing delays: GPR provides real-time information about the size and distribution of sites. In the case of clay dwellings, the technology could have delineated areas of interest without completely stopping railroad work.
- Support collaboration between teams: Engineers and archaeologists can work more efficiently, using the data provided by GPR to adjust the route of works without compromising historic or infrastructure targets.
Practical examples of GPR technology
- Clay dwellings: GPR can detect fragile ancient structures. In dry soils, the penetration depth can reach up to 4 meters. The data collected could have been used to create a three-dimensional model of the sarmate dwellings, providing a detailed insight into the ancient architecture.
- Animal burials: GPR can detect even subtle differences in density in the soil, making it possible to identify large burials before excavation. This would have allowed better planning of railroad works.
- Sarmatian cemetery delineation: Technology can quickly identify areas of interest while protecting artifacts. For example, the Zond Aero LF, with a penetration of up to 15 meters, would be ideal for detecting larger or deeper structures.
Technology bridging past and future
The discoveries at the site in the west of the country demonstrate the importance of protecting cultural heritage, and modern technologies such as GPR can make this task easier. For CFR, the integration of GPR could transform infrastructure projects, ensuring both the protection of history and the efficient modernization of rail transport.
For further details on the benefits of GPR and the use of the Zond Aero 500, see our dedicated article here.
