Geoarchaeological Research in Latin America: Trends and Challenges

Geoarchaeology in Latin America is a burgeoning field that explores the intricate relationships between humans and their environments over millennia. Tierra del Fuego to Mexico, and from hearths to urban centers , the archaeological record across this vast region is rich and diverse. In recent decades, geoarchaeological studies have significantly advanced our understanding of the complex processes that have shaped these landscapes. By employing theories, methods, and proxies to analyze minerals, rocks, and soil/sediments, researchers have been able to unravel the interactions and transformations that have occurred from pre-Columbian times to the present. Despite these advancements, there remain significant gaps in our understanding of the geogenic, biogenic, and anthropogenic processes that have influenced regional and site histories. Ongoing debates and the need for more comprehensive investigations highlight the importance of continued research in this field.

This Research Topic aims to present the current state of geoarchaeological research in Latin America, with a particular focus on the outcomes of the 10th Developing International Geoarchaeology and the 10th Group of Geoarchaeological Studies in Latin America conference held in São Paulo, Brazil, in November 2023. The primary objective is to enhance the visibility of geoarchaeological research conducted in Latin America within a global context. By doing so, the Research Topic seeks to address key questions related to landscape-scale effects of human activities, site formation processes, and the procurement of raw materials for artifacts and buildings. Researchers are encouraged to test hypotheses related to these themes and explore the application of diverse geoarchaeological techniques.

To gather further insights in the field of geoarchaeology in Latin America, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Landscape transformations and legacies through time
- Site formation processes in different settings
- Raw materials and procurement
- Geoarchaeological mapping and survey
- Anthropogenic contributions to sites and landscapes
- Novel methods in geoarchaeological research

While the focus is on studies conducted in Latin America, contributions from other regions presented at the conference are also encouraged.

Keywords: geoarchaeological research, latin america, landscapes, micromorphology, environment

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.