GEOARCHAEOLOGY OF ANCIENT SITE SETTLEMENT AT EASTERN THUNGKULA RONGHAI, SRISAKET AND YASOTHON PROVINCES IN NORTHEAST THAILAND

Abstract

Archaeology in Thailand is generally associated with geological application. In this work, the relationship between ancient site settlement and geomorphology is carried out under geoarchaeological approach. Study area is located on the eastern Thungkula Ronghai (TKR) bordered between Mun and Chi Rivers in Srisaket and Yasothon where many archaeological sites have been found. The research focuses on aerial photograph and satellite imaginary interpretation, application of ground penetrating radar (GPR) on sand splays morphology and GIS software to analyze ancient site location on geomorphology for reconstructing the relationship of human past with their landscapes. Results indicate the interesting landforms of the study area including paleochannels, annular depression landform (ADL) and aeolian sand splays. 54 archaeological sites are almost placed close to paleochannel with ADL, in contrast to a few moated sites located on distal sand splay due to shallow groundwater level and short distance from streams. In addition, the historical settlement associated with the sand splays, especially the temples. They can be explained under approach of landscape archaeology that the religion or the faith is realized. Finally, the spatial analysis suggests that “water resources” with higher elevation are the major factor for considering to be occupied. The moats and earthworks are implied to an adaptation of water management for using in living and agriculture.