The Non-Invasive Survey

Introduction

Excavation is not the only way of finding out more about an archaeological site. Archaeologists also look for clues without digging. This is known as a non-invasive survey, because it does not involve ‘invading’, or in other words disturbing, the evidence in the ground.

At the Amphitheatre a number of non-invasive surveys have been carried out to provide as much information about the Site as possible - before any of the archaeologists lifted a spade.

Some of the types of survey involved computers and latest technology, whilst others required skilled observation and analysis. These included:

• A cartographic survey of the site, using old maps of the city.
• An architectural survey of the surrounding area of the amphitheatre site
• A photogrammetric survey
• A geophysical survey
• A topographic survey
• An aerial survey of the site using a Unmanned Aerial Vehicl (balloon)
• A Laser scan of the Amphitheatre Site

All the information produced by the non-invasive surveys has helped the archaeologists learn more about the Amphitheatre, as well what happened to the site when the Romans left, and how its location moulded the landscape we see today.