Using experimental archaeology and micromorphology to reconstruct timber-framed buildings from Roman Silchester: a new approach. (October 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Banerjea, Rowena Y.; Fulford, Michael; Bell, Martin; Clarke, Amanda; Matthews, Wendy
• Is Part Of: Antiquity. Volume 89:Number 347(2015)
• Page Start: 1174
• Page End: 1188
• Publication Date: 2015-10
• Subjects: Roman Britain, -- urban structures, -- chronologies of architecture, -- formation processes; Archaeology -- Periodicals; Antiquities -- Periodicals; 930.05
• DOI: 10.15184/aqy.2015.108
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0003-598X

Abstract

Abstract: Abstract : Determining the internal layout of archaeological structures and their uses has always been challenging, particularly in timber-framed or earthen-walled buildings where doorways and divisions are difficult to trace. In temperate conditions, soil-formation processes may hold the key to understanding how buildings were used. The abandoned Roman town of Silchester, UK, provides a case study for testing a new approach that combines experimental archaeology and micromorphology. The results show that this technique can provide clarity to previously uncertain features of urban architecture.