RUSLE erosion modelling reveals good preservation status of the archaeological site of Arslantepe (Malatya, Republic of Türkiye)
Author(s)
Date Issued
2026
Type
article
Volume
Febbraio 2026
Issue
Febbraio 2026
Start Page
1
End Page
19
Journal
Abstract
Assessing the physical integrity of archaeological sites is vital for heritage conservation management. Using the example of Arslantepe, a prehistoric tell site in south-eastern Türkiye, this article demonstrates the application of RUSLE modelling to estimate surface erosion vulnerability, employing ultra-high-resolution photogrammetry and a field-based geoarchaeological framework. The results reveal contained erosion across the site with localised degradation limited to steep trench walls and spoil heaps, indicating remarkably good site conservation and consolidating the effectiveness of RUSLE modelling as a scalable method for evaluating surface processes and informing conservation strategies on individual archaeological sites.
Additional information
Articolo open access, su rivista di classe A
Project(s)
Research Projects of National Interest 2022, National Recovery and Resilience Plan, code P2022PNWYW