Investigation of a possible cistern structure at kalehisar ruins using geophysical methods

One of the biggest difficulties encountered in archaeological excavations is the lack of exact location and depth information of the remains of structures buried underground. This situation brings a great burden to the excavation team both economically and due to the increase in excavation time. Archaeological methods that can be applied non-destructively from the surface provide convenience in terms of time and cost. In recent years, innovations in tool design and the development of interpretation-modeling programs in parallel with the development of technology have made geophysical methods a natural part of archaeological studies. This thesis has identified the Kalehisar Archaeological Site in the Alaca District of Çorum as the research area. The aim is to conduct an archaeogeophysical study using geophysical methods, including ground penetrating radar (GPR), electrical resistivity, and magnetic methods, at a site within the Kalehisar Archaeological Site where excavations are planned for the coming years and where an ancient cistern structure is suspected. The aim is to identify a possible buried cistern structure and related structures within the site. Magnetic analysis revealed a structure approximately 5-8 meters wide, oriented southwest-northeast, and smaller structures connected to this structure to the southeast. The structures observed under ERT profiles were observed to have depths of approximately 1.5-2 meters, while anomalies observed from GPR data ranged from 0.3 meters to 2-5 meters. Thus, the results obtained from this thesis have determined the location, orientation, and depth of buried archaeological remains. It is anticipated that this thesis will guide future excavations by contributing both economically and saving time.