Discovering Tomb Interiors at Tarquinia Using Modern Technology

The tool used by archaeologists to explore tomb interiors at Tarquinia without the costly and lengthy procedure of excavation was an underground seismograph. Seismographs are typically associated with measuring earthquakes, but archaeologists have repurposed this technology to detect buried structures and features below the surface of archaeological sites, which is of particular use in locations like Tarquinia.

Seismographs are able to provide a sort of map of the underground features, enabling archaeologists to more easily locate tombs and other structures without the necessity of extensive excavation. Tarquinia, an ancient city in Italy, is notable for its significant Etruscan burial grounds. As the cost of excavations becomes prohibitive, alternative methods like the underground seismograph become vital aids in archaeological studies.

This non-invasive technique can help establish the layout of underlying architecture, allowing researchers to construct a profile of what is buried underneath, thereby minimizing the risk of damage to potentially valuable archaeological resources.