Examination of earthen construction in archaeological sites of the Iberian Peninsula for risk analysis

Abstract

[EN] Earthen constructions are one of the most widespread and fragile elements of the architectural heritage of the Iberian Peninsula. This situation is worsened when they lack the necessary protection and are found in vulnerable enclaves such as archaeological sites. Their geographical, cultural and constructive particularities expose them to different risks – natural, social and anthropic – which threaten their conservation and interpretation for future generations. This study aims to examine this type of heritage complex in constructive terms, focusing on constructions of a domestic and productive nature and paying special attention to those from prehistoric, protohistoric and Roman periods. Attention is also paid to later similar remains conserved. Quantitative and qualitative analysis methodologies are applied to a series of case studies found throughout the Iberian Peninsula in order to record the information on fiches examining general and specific aspects of the different techniques observed. Given the broad timeline and geography covered, as well as other identification and conservation factors, the data collected reflect a predominance of adobe over other earthen techniques which are also described, including daub, cob and rammed earth, with fewer examples identified throughout. This heritage is therefore classified to record the original states compiled from the different archives, reports and publications. Subsequently, a specific database is generated for the analysis of risks (exposure and sensitivity) and criteria, strategies or results (capacity for adaptation), gleaning as much information as possible from these characteristics.