Making the Invisible Stratigraphy Visible: A Grid-Based, Multi-Proxy Geoarchaeological Study of Umhlatuzana Rockshelter, South Africa

A grid-based, multi-proxy geoarchaeological study of Umhlatuzana Rockshelter in South Africa reveals that the site's stratigraphy, previously appearing homogeneous, shows fine-resolution geochemical differentiations linked to environmental changes and human occupation intensity during the Pleistocene. The research combines pH measurements, X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis, magnetic susceptibility, and micromorphological observations to demonstrate a steady transition from Middle Stone Age to Later Stone Age industries, suggesting wetter conditions during the transitional period. This study also confirms the integrity of the sedimentary sequence, ruling out large-scale post-depositional movement. The approach offers a robust method for studying archaeological deposits at both macro and micro scales, providing insights into stratigraphic integrity, anthropogenic input, preservation, and environmental change.

Reidsma, F. H., Sifogeorgaki, I., Dinckal, A., Huisman, H., Sier, M. J., van Os, B., & Dusseldorp, G. L. (2021). Making the Invisible Stratigraphy Visible: A Grid-Based, Multi-Proxy Geoarchaeological Study of Umhlatuzana Rockshelter, South Africa. Frontiers in Earth Science, 9. https://doi.org/10.3389/feart.2021.664105