Spatial Statistical Analysis of Shipwreck Sites: A Methodological Proposal

Abstract

Spatial statistical analysis is almost absent from research on underwater archaeological contexts. However, the information obtained using this approach would allow the reconstruction of depositional dynamics and the exploration of distribution patterns related to the ships’ on-board organization. This paper proposes a six-step methodology that will contribute to reducing the current gap in the use of spatial statistical analysis of shipwreck sites. This methodology will be tested in two distinct case studies, the Uluburun and the Tortugas wrecks, showing that the same protocol can be useful in the interpretation of different shipwrecks, in sites with a coherent distribution during their formation process. Using statistical tools, this methodology will strengthen context awareness, confirming, refuting, or adding new perspectives to previous interpretations. Finally, the way the framework was built will allow its replication in other sites.