Geo-archaeological and archaeological research on genesis and function of earthwork in Palau

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Monumental prehistoric earthworks define the landscape of the island of Babeldaob (Republic of Palau, Micronesia). Archaeological studies prove that there were settlements on Palau as early as 3100 BP – centuries before such monuments emerged on other south pacific islands. Even though this area once had a great tradition of oral folklore, no information was passed on about the construction, function or utilization of the terraced earthworks on Babeldaob. In the course of the proposed project, systematic geo-archaeological and archaeological investigations should illuminate how and when the terraces were built, which purpose they served, and how and if the terraces have been altered over time. Our examination shall take the utilization of the terraces as settlements, horticulture, defense purposes, or as cultural practices into consideration. Shape, location, and distribution of the facilities shall be documented via geo-referenced aerial photographs. Geo-archaeological and archaeological soundings, excavations, and laboratory analysis of samples from selected earthworks should provide information of the genesis, purpose, and former usage. Data and samples shall be collected during two field campaigns, which will be followed by detailed chemical, physical, micro-morphological and palaeo-ecological laboratory analysis. The analyzed data of all examined terrace systems shall be combined and integrated into a space-time model. In the last year of research, the findings will undergo a final evaluation in preparation for publication and will also be presented to the public in a workshop through discussions with experts.