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Modelling of pathways and movement networks in archaeology: an overview of current approaches

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Verhagen, Philip, Nuninger, Laure, Groenhuijzen, Mark R.·2019·Computational Social Sciences
DOI 10.1007/978-3-030-04576-0_11
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Abstract

This chapter presents and discusses current approaches and trends in computer-based modelling of pathways and movement networks in archaeology. After an introduction to the theoretical concepts involved, we present a state of the art of methodologies applied for reconstructing pathways and movement in ancient landscapes and discuss the various difficulties in using these methods as well as the most important technical hurdles involved. The problems of integrating optimal pathfinding algorithms with ‘softer’ socio-cultural variables are highlighted, as well as the limitations of modelling connections between places using least-cost path techniques. Network analysis reconstruction and analysis approaches are then reviewed as tools to better understand the overall structure of movement and communication in ancient landscapes. It is concluded that, while the potential of current approaches for understanding ancient movement is considerable, improvement is still needed in three main areas: the integration of approaches, sensitivity analysis and validation, and the theoretical underpinning of models of ancient movement.

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Authors
Verhagen, P., Nuninger, L., & Groenhuijzen, M. R.
Affiliations
Laboratoire Chrono-Environnement (FR)
Corresponding author
Verhagen, Philip
Venue
Computational Social Sciences
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published
2019
Pages
217-249
ISSN
  • 2509-9574 (ISSN-L)
  • 2509-9582
DOI
10.1007/978-3-030-04576-0_11
OpenAlex
W2891665270
Cited by
117
References
141
Citations by year
2026: 17 · 2025: 14 · 2024: 15 · 2023: 25 · 2022: 14 · 2021: 15 · 2020: 12 · 2019: 5
FWCI
56.29
Type
book chapter
Language
en
Open access
Licence
Locations
  • Computational social sciences (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • HAL (submittedVersion, other-oa)
  • VU Research Portal (submittedVersion, cc-by)
  • Data Archiving and Networked Services (DANS) (submittedVersion, cc-by)
Topics
  • Physical Sciences › Earth and Planetary Sciences › Space and Planetary Science › Archaeological Research and Protection
  • Physical Sciences › Engineering › Building and Construction › Urban Design and Spatial Analysis
  • Social Sciences › Cultural Studies › Archaeology and Cultural Heritage
Keywords
movement networks, pathways, ancient landscapes, least-cost path analysis, network analysis, communication networks, sociocultural factors, sensitivity analysis, model validation, computational archaeology

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