Megalithic architecture refers to ancient structures from the Eneolithic and Bronze Ages (5th–2nd millennium BC), built from large, uncut stone blocks without the use of mortar. These monuments are among the earliest examples of engineering and community organisation, helping researchers reconstruct how ancient societies lived, worked, and interacted with their environment.
The process of documenting and analysing megalithic architecture requires precision, attention, and considerable time. However, modern technologies such as 3D modelling and photogrammetry optimise the work of archaeologists.
Demonstrating this in practice, our Swiss partner Pix4D shares the results of the MEG-A (Megaliths of Akkar) project, conducted at the University of Geneva by researchers and students from the Laboratory of Prehistoric Archaeology and Anthropology, who studied the megaliths of Northern Lebanon.
Location: Menjez village, Akkar region.
Object: A unique burial complex comprising 45 tombs dating back to the 5th–3rd millennia BC.
Task: To survey the interior of a megalithic tomb in the Menjez area, documenting its structure and contents.
Project challenges
Accurate documentation of archaeological sites in remote or challenging landscapes is a complex task.
Traditional surveying methods using cameras, booms, and drones have proven effective. However, their use in rugged terrain, such as the basalt fields of Akkar, is difficult, and transporting bulky equipment over uneven surfaces is impractical. This is especially problematic when time is limited and multiple sites need to be documented simultaneously.
Archaeologists are exploring the interior of the megalithic tomb at the Menjez site, documenting its structure and contents.
Using Pix4Dcatch in combination with a standard smartphone allows these challenges to be overcome more efficiently while achieving more accurate results.
Data collection methodology
After each excavation, researchers from the MEG-A project walked around the site and photographed it using an iPhone. This approach saved time, and real-time visual feedback enabled them to verify complete site coverage before finishing their work on location.
By combining 3D modelling with careful excavation, archaeologists created a detailed database for accurate mapping of each megalithic tomb in Menjez.
Using Pix4Dcatch, 1,724 images were captured in 30 minutes of fieldwork, followed by just 43 minutes for processing and file export. Analysis of the data revealed three distinct types of structures among the tombs, providing new insights into ancient construction techniques and practices.
Orthophoto plan of the site generated in Pix4Dmatic
Using Pix4Dcatch tools, the team quickly generated accurate 3D models of the structures for further work in Geneva, including the creation of cross-sections, profiles, sectional views, and detailed drawings of the monuments.
The video shows the work of archaeologists from the MEG-A project and the use of Pix4Dcatch to document the tombs
Conclusion
Pix4Dcatch’s modern digital tools play a key role in documenting archaeological sites, optimising research time. Results can be obtained directly on site and, if necessary, additional surveys can be conducted to create more detailed maps and plans without the need for additional equipment.
Futurology is official distributor of Pix4D software. The brands' products are available through the Futurology dealer network in the United States of America. For more information, please contact info@futurology.tech.
