01 Digging Up the Past

Digging up the past

Hidden history Things from long ago sometimes get buried underground. Slowly, layers of soil build up over them and plants or buildings cover them. Ancient things, like these jewels, help experts to understand how people lived in the past.

Signs and clues Archaeologists look for different clues that tell them where something might be buried. Lumps and bumps on the ground can mark where old buildings once stood. These grassy bumps show where an old fortress used to be.

Old coins or pieces of tile can be washed up by rivers. This may mean more are buried nearby. Ancient pots are sometimes found in fields. Experts search the area to try to find more. Everyday objects such as tools can be found buried near ruins and old buildings. Sometimes machines such as metal detectors are used to help to find things underground.

Dig in Archaeologists only begin to dig when they think they know where something is buried. 1. Often, they use shovels to remove the top layer of soil. 2. They use trowels to search through the soil very carefully. 3. If they find something fragile, they brush it clean. 4. Then they take it away to preserve and study it.

This archaeologist has dug up the bones of someone who died long ago. She is cleaning them with a soft brush.