Archaeological Maps

maps that indicate the distribution of archaeological cultures and remains on the earth’s surface and the diffusion of distinct types of ancient industries and objects. With the aid of archaeological cartography it is possible to establish the sites of ancient societies; their movements, interrelationships, and mutual influences; and the nature of their economy, culture, and social organization. Archaeological cartography also determines historical-cultural, ethnic, and political boundaries; trade routes and economic relations; the interrelationship between past social phenomena and geographical factors; and so forth. Archaeological finds were first plotted on a map in the mid-19th century. Specialized topical and typological archaeological maps, first compiled in the 20th century, give an idea of the geographical diffusion of cultural elements of ancient populations and paleoethnologic and other historical and archaeological data. Archaeological maps promote the preservation and study of the archaeological remains plotted on them.