Semi-automatic detection of linear archaeological traces from orthorectified aerial images

This paper presents a semi-automatic approach for archaeological traces detection from aerial images. The method developed was based on the multiphase active contour model (ACM). The image was segmented into three competing regions to improve the visibility of buried remains showing in the image as crop marks (i.e. centuriations, agricultural allocations, ancient roads, etc.). An initial determination of relevant traces can be quickly carried out by the operator by sketching straight lines close to the traces. Subsequently, tuning parameters (i.e. eccentricity, orientation, minimum area and distance from input line) are used to remove non-target objects and parameterize the detected traces. The algorithm and graphical user interface for this method were developed in a MATLAB environment and tested on high resolution orthorectified aerial images. A qualitative analysis of the method was lastly performed by comparing the traces extracted with ancient traces verified by archaeologists.