Geophysical investigations at the Istron archaeological site, eastern Crete, Greece using seismic refraction and electrical resistivity tomography

Abstract

The subsurface characteristics of the archaeological site of Priniatikos Pyrgos at Istron, Eastern Crete were studied through the combined use of seismic and electrical tomography techniques. Twenty-nine seismic refraction profiles were applied to determine soil thickness and bedrock geometrical characteristics. First arrivals were picked and a 3D algorithm of seismic tomography was used to invert the travel times. To confirm the reliability of the final results a checkboard test was used. Part of the seismic area was overlapped with six electrical resistivity tomography sections. The ERT data were used to validate the resulted tomographic images. The integrated application of these tomographic methods enhanced the knowledge regarding the geological conditions and contributed in the archaeo-environmental reconstruction of Istron area by providing indications regarding the ancient harbour of the nearby settlement.