An introduction to methods of discovering and identifying ancient sites with emphasis on evidence and geomorphologic techniques

Recognizing of position of ancient sites, it is of the great help to archaeologist. After this recognition, the archaeologist with rely on the knowledge and usual techniques in archaeology can determine the range of sites. After the discovery of this information, the archaeologist can get the information about the social, economic, livelihood and political of the past of sites. In this research, the methods of discovering and identifying the geographical location of ancient sites are discussed. These methods can be divided into two parts: 1) indirect methods (remote selection methods) and 2) direct methods (field studies). The basis of work in indirect methods relies on the extraction of information from non-terrestrial (satellite image and Arial pictures) data. The indirect methods (remote selection methods) have less cost and speed than more direct methods. In direct methods or field methods, extraction of information relies on evidence and effects of environmental changes such as topography, soil changes, geological layers, hydrology and indigenous information. Direct methods are cost and time consuming, but it is more accurate than indirect methods and provides more information in lesser range. Combine these two methods will allow access to a wider area of the region, more information from the area and around the sites. Combining these two methods brings the best results.