The CETARCH project investigates the archaeological evidence of human–cetacean relationships through an interdisciplinary approach integrating archaeology, material culture studies, biomolecular research, digital documentation, and environmental data. The project explores how cetaceans shaped past coastal societies and how archaeological evidence contributes to understanding long-term human–environment interactions.
Collections, Archives & Archaeological Contexts
Investigation of archaeological sites, museum collections, excavation archives, and historical sources to reconstruct cetacean exploitation and coastal lifeways across Iceland, Norway, and the wider North Atlantic.
Whale-Bone Materials & Biomolecular Research
Study of whale-bone artefacts and cetacean remains using zooarchaeology, ZooMS, osteological identification, radiocarbon dating, technological analysis, and manufacturing research.
Digital Archaeology & Data Integration
Integration of archaeological, archival, laboratory, and environmental data through relational databases, GIS, photogrammetry, 3D modelling, and multivariate analytical methods.
Human–Cetacean Relationships, Heritage & Outreach
Investigation of long-term human–cetacean relationships through archaeological, historical, and environmental evidence, contributing to research on marine ecosystems, cultural heritage, and environmental change.