All or nothing: spatial analysis and interpretation of archaeological record based on the integration of artifactual, ecofactual, and contextual data at the medieval site of Komana

Abstract

This paper aims to conduct a detailed investigation of the archaeological record, bringing together spatial, contextual, artifactual, and ecofactual data in different scales of recovery conditions. An extra attempt was made not only to integrate zooarchaeological and archaeobotanical but also artifactual data. This approach aimed to see the complete picture of the archaeological record, where environmental data were considered as important as artifacts and would contribute to a comprehensive interpretation of the archaeological record. A workshop/domestic building complex from the Byzantine site of Komana has been used to illustrate an efficient merge of these different categories of data. In particular, one room was given a special attention and investigated in detail. The fill of the room contains numerous highly fragmented sherds of coarse storage vessels, burnt cooking pots, and glazed fine wares. A large number of animal bone remains have also been recovered. Furthermore, a considerable number of plant remains, originating from burnt layers, ovens, and pits, have been recovered.