Precise global georeferencing of sites and geodetic techniques for morphological surveys within a common reference frame

Abstract Topographical surveying is an important tool aimed at guaranteeing both excellent documentation and support for multidisciplinary scientific investigations within the theme of Cultural Heritage. In archaeology, it is closely connected to other research operations and is fundamental to the geometrical comprehension of the relationships among finds and between archaeological structures. Modern surveying technologies offered by Geomatics allow the study of objects, sites, and territory in a consistent way using space geodesy together with digital photogrammetry, laser scanning, total stations, and satellite remote sensing. Space-geodetic techniques are suitable for multi-scale measurements (global to local), and thus complement traditional in situ observation systems. This paper describes examples of the use of GPS in archaeology, applied to frame topographical measurements within a globally defined reference frame.