Geophysical prospecting and remote sensing for the study of the San Rossore area in Pisa (Tuscany, Italy)

With the dual purpose of extending knowledge about the archaeological site of San Rossore and of assisting archaeologists in the recovery process of the ships, geophysical surveys integrated with remote sensing analyses were performed. The surveys were conducted at selected locations, placed on the plan of excavation (approximately 5 m above the ancient surface) and near the archaeological excavation area. Passive (Self Potentials) and active (Induced Polarization) electrical methods were used. The choice of geophysical methods was due to the peculiarity of the geological characteristics of the site. In fact, the sediments embodying the archaeological remains are mainly silts and silty sands, which are moderately conductive. Furthermore, a shallow groundwater hosted in the alluvial deposits (at approximately 2 m below the surface plane) is present in the site. Induced Polarization results inside the excavation area allowed identifying some anomalies related to the ship boundaries, as well as other anomalies probably attributable to archaeological features. Additionally, the Self Potentials measurements carried out in the area near the archaeological excavation evidenced the presence of other archaeological features such as two ships, a pier and other structures. Furthermore, the multitemporal remote sensing data allow the identification of many traces related to filling of channels and ditches. Finally, the integration of the data contributed to a better interpretation of the archaeological site. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.