On the Combination of Remote Sensing and Geophysical Methods for the Digitalization of the San Lázaro Middle Paleolithic Rock Shelter (Segovia, Central Iberia, Spain)

Abstract

This paper is focused on the Middle Paleolithic rock shelter called “Abrigo de San Lázaro”, placed in the Eresma River valley (Segovia, Spain). In this area, a multisource geomatic approach is used. On the one hand, the external envelope of the shelter has been digitalized by the means of an efficient combination between aerial photogrammetry and laser scanning (static and mobile). On the other hand, the ground penetrating radar and the electric tomography were used with the aim of evaluating the inner disposition of the shelter. The combination of both digitalization (external and internal) has allowed for improving the knowledge of the site characteristics that, in turn, will facilitate the future excavation works. The results of these studies allow archaeologists to know new data for a better understanding of the site formation (geology of the site, sedimentary potential, rock shelter dimensions, etc.) and the events that took place in it (knowing its historical evolution, especially the interaction between man and the environment). Additionally, the information obtained from these studies is very useful to plan future excavation works on the site.