A methodological approach to rock art survey and recording via drone. The application to the Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin of the Iberian Peninsula assemblage

Advancements in drone technology, particularly the use of LiDAR imagery, have revolutionized archaeological surveying, especially for inaccessible open-air rock art shelters. This study introduces a refined methodology using the DJI Mavic 3 drone to survey and record prehistoric rock art within UNESCO’s World Heritage List property: Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin on the Iberian Peninsula. The approach not only enhances documentation but also addresses conservation challenges and manages human activity threats in these fragile environments. By leveraging cutting-edge drone capabilities, researchers demonstrate its potential for broader applications in preserving and studying vulnerable archaeological sites.

Hernández, F. J. M., González, V. B., López, J. F. R., & Briz, X. M. (2024). A methodological approach to rock art survey and recording via drone. The application to the Rock Art of the Mediterranean Basin of the Iberian Peninsula assemblage. Drone Systems and Applications, 12, 1–18. https://doi.org/10.1139/dsa-2023-0134