The British School at Rome

The modern ground surface or topography often contains important information on the conditions and nature of an archaeological site, and the potential existence of structures buried beneath the soil (Bowden 1999). The changes in topography can also have a great influence on determining the nature of features in a geophysical survey. Therefore it is vital to produce a detailed and complete topographic survey as part of the field survey of any given site. This generally entails the recording of elevations across a grid of certain resolution, for instance 5 or 10m intervals, but also the recording of points on known breaks of slope, to emphasis archaeological features in the landscape.

			Survey is usually undertaken by the BSR/APSS using a Total Station or Global Positioning System (GPS) to record the survey points. Computer software is then used to produce topographic plans and Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) of the results. Normally, survey is carried out using a Leica Total Station, with readings taken every 4 metres, and also on the breaks of slope of important topographical features. The resolution can be increased where necessary. Up to 5 hectares per day can be covered.
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