Exploring the Potential of 3D Scanning in Archaeology: A Case Study of Ga-Mohana Hill in South Africa

The world of archaeology has seen a significant shift in recent years, with the integration of technology playing an increasingly important role in the field. One such technology that has gained considerable attention is 3D scanning. This non-invasive technique allows researchers to create detailed digital models of archaeological sites and artifacts, offering numerous benefits that range from enhanced interaction and preservation to increased accessibility and collaboration. In this article, we will delve into the potential of 3D scanning in archaeology through a case study of Ga-Mohana Hill in South Africa.

Ga-Mohana Hill, situated in the semi-arid region of South Africa, is a site of profound cultural and archaeological significance. The hill is home to two significant rock shelters, Ga-Mohana Hill North Rockshelter and Ga-Mohana Hill South Rockshelter, which are located at opposite sides of the hill. The south rockshelter preserves rock art and archaeological traces from the Later Stone Age, while the north shelter dates back to 105,000 years ago and contains ostrich eggshell fragments, stone tools, and a cache of calcite crystals.

Today, Ga-Mohana Hill holds deep cultural significance for the local community, despite its prominence diminishing due to various socio-political factors. The site is of particular importance to Sechaba Maape, one of the researchers involved in the study, who grew up in the area and has actively worked to restore Ga-Mohana as a meaningful place from a cultural perspective. The site is used for various initiation rituals, spiritual communion and prayer sessions, and is also visited by traditional healers and tourists.

The researchers sought to create an online, interactive 3D digital replica of Ga-Mohana Hill that represented its multiple uses and the potency it holds within the community. They conducted a 3D scan of the site by acquiring photogrammetric images using drone and hand-held cameras. The images were then processed to produce an optimized 3D model suitable for web-based applications.

To bring the digital model to life, the researchers augmented it with various visual devices and customized text in the form of rotating signboards. The Great Snake, a significant cultural figure in the community, was represented as a moving shadow on the shelter wall. Candles were placed in the 3D version of the shelter to symbolize the site’s ongoing religious aspects. Archaeological artifacts were digitally placed into the 3D model to show where they were found, thus returning them to their original context. Other visual devices included a hearth, flowing tufas, enhanced rock art, and animated engravings, all designed to animate the place and show its vitality.

The researchers also created a website to contextualize and introduce the 3D model, warning people who may not want to visit the model for cultural reasons and because of its ritual potency. The project underscores the significance of archaeological visualization in reshaping perceptions of the past and contributing to the formation of present identities.

The study highlights the importance of acknowledging and portraying cultural, social, and political contexts in 3D documentation, rather than privileging one voice over others. By avoiding dominant viewpoints and promoting inclusivity, researchers can subvert dominant narratives and contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the past.

Furthermore, the project demonstrates the potential of 3D scanning in archaeology to preserve sites and artifacts that may be at risk due to various factors, such as natural decay, human activities, or socio-political circumstances. The digital replicas can serve as valuable resources for researchers, educators, and the public, offering opportunities for exploration, collaboration, and learning.

In conclusion, the case study of Ga-Mohana Hill in South Africa provides a compelling example of the potential of 3D scanning in archaeology. By focusing on the digitization of place, rather than just space, researchers can create digital models that represent the rich cultural, social, and historical contexts of archaeological sites, offering new opportunities for exploration, preservation, and learning.

As technology continues to advance, the integration of 3D scanning and other digital techniques in archaeology is expected to become even more prevalent, offering numerous benefits and opportunities for researchers, educators, and the public. The future of archaeology lies in the intersection of technology and culture, where the past and the present converge to create new understandings and perspectives.

References:

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