Abstract:

Recent developments make radiocarbon dating increasingly useful for urban archaeology. Bayesian modelling can combine the detailed urban stratigraphies with radiocarbon dates and other archaeological and historical information to produce fine-grained absolute chronologies. Furthermore, we are currently working on a new calibration curve, which is based on annual samples, in contrast to the existing curves based on decadal samples. I will present the results of extensive radiocarbon dating programmes at the sites Ribe (Denmark) and Jerash (Jordan). These examples illustrate how Bayesian modelling and the annual calibration curve can be used for high-definition radiocarbon dating.

The lecture will be followed by a wine reception.