MSc in Archaeological Science

Environmental Archaeology (12 ECTS)

2nd Semester

This module consists of two broad units: archaeobotany and zooarchaeology.

In archaeobotany, students learn the theoretical background and acquire hands-on practical experience in the approach and study of past botanical remains. They are trained in procedures such as methods and strategy of sampling, and identification, quantitative analysis and description of archaeobotanical remains, such as seeds, wood (charred or not), pollen and phytoliths. Special emphasis is given in the information provided by archaeobotanical remains regarding diet, availability and use of natural resources, and vegetation in landscapes of the past.

In zooarchaeology, students learn how to approach and study animal rmeains, mostly bones. The module includes theoretical knowledge and practical training in sorting, identification, quantitative analysis and desription of zooarchaeological remains. Also, this part of of the module focuses on the information that zooarchaeological remains can provide to archaeologists regarding human behavior in the past, and the interaction of humans with their environment in the past.

Both units include comparable number of hours in the class and the laboratory, for lecture and practical training, respectively.