archaeological hierarchy

Archaeological hierarchy refers to the organization of findings and sites based on their significance and scale. At the highest level are large archaeological sites like cities or temples, often containing multiple layers of history. Beneath these are smaller sites, such as villages or ceremonial spaces. Individual artifacts, like tools or pottery, represent the finest level of detail. This hierarchy helps archaeologists prioritize research, manage excavation efforts, and understand cultural development over time by examining how these different levels interact within human history.