From tradition to innovation: GIS in archaeology of Akmola region

Abstract

The first experience of an archaeological map throughout Kazakhstan was carried out in 1960. This publication was the result of intensive exploration work of the virgin land expeditions of 1953-1956 under the leadership of K. Akishev. Currently, the scale of archaeological work, the expansion of the coverage of the studied spaces, and geoinformation capabilities have formed new requirements and approaches to cartography. The development of computer technologies and the emergence of geoinformation systems have significantly expanded the tools of researchers, increased the efficiency of analysis and processing of data taken from the earth’s surface. At first, this role was assigned to airplanes and helicopters, later to satellite systems and now to unmanned aerial vehicles. The main advantage of modern technologies is undoubtedly the ability to store and analyze large amounts of data, which allows for deeper and more comprehensive research. The task that faced archaeology more than half a century ago remains relevant. Despite the noticeable simplification of the process of creating maps, we still do not fully realize the full potential of computing systems in archaeological research. The article presents an example of creating a map of the archaeological sites of the Akmola region. During the development of the geoinformation system, data on 1032 monuments were processed and mapped. The most convenient ways of forming databases and applying remote sensing methods in everyday research are also considered, and an assumption is made regarding the nearterm prospects for the development of GIS in archaeology.