Geochemical analysis of columnar basalt used in the construction of Nan Madol, Micronesia, reveals that the estimated 750,000 metric tons of stone were tra
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Geochemical analysis of columnar basalt used in the construction of Nan Madol, Micronesia, reveals that the estimated 750,000 metric tons of stone were transported from multiple quarry sources around the island of Pohnpei. The logistics of basalt procurement, raft transport, and construction sequencing suggest a high degree of political organization in the Saudeleur dynasty.
Published in Journal of Archaeological Science (2016), this peer-reviewed paper contributes to scholarly understanding of ancient civilizations and archaeological methodology. Read the full abstract, explore citation details, and discover connections to related research, sites, and theories on Ancient Origins Explorer.