This study reveals that the early architectural development in the Near East was far more complex than previously thought, challenging the traditional narrative of a straightforward transition from round to rectangular structures during the Neolithic period. The research introduces a novel computational approach to analyse architectural remains, providing an objective and repeatable method for examining building outlines. This methodology uncovers insights that qualitative methods might overlook, including quantification of defined angles in structures as early as the Natufian period, suggesting advanced building techniques were in use earlier than believed. The study also highlights the architectural diversity during the Natufian and early Neolithic period, suggesting that building codes and more standard practices had not yet emerged. These findings provide new insights into the social and technological changes accompanying the rise of permanent settlements and agricultural economies.
A recent study led by researchers from the Institute of Archaeology at the Hebrew University—Hadas Goldgeier, Dr Antoine Muller and Professor Leore Grosman—introduces a new computational method to analyse the architectural development of early settlements. By offering an objective and repeatable approach to examining architectural remains, the study gives a new perspective on the transition from round to rectangular structures during the Neolithic period in the Near East.
ISRAEL, Lake of Galilee: 2018 Ein Gev 2 site archeological excevations, photo by Leore Grosman
Architectural forms have long been tied to societal shifts such as changes in social organisation, demographics, and economic strategies. However, traditional interpretations of early architecture have relied on qualitative methods, which may oversimplify complex trends. This study provides a fresh perspective by digitising building outlines and employing computational tools to objectively quantify their two-dimensional morphology. Using measures like the directionality of normal vectors and minimum angles, the team analysed 118 structures from 23 sites across the Mediterranean region and Jordan Valley, dating from the Natufian culture to the early Neolithic (15,000–8,500 years ago).
The results revealed a far more nuanced picture than the conventional “round-to-rectangular” narrative suggests. Structures with right angles, previously associated with later architectural phases, were found as early as the Natufian period, reflecting significant advances in building technology at an earlier stage than previously thought. Moreover, the variability in structure shapes was highest during the Natufian and early Neolithic periods, reflecting a lack of formalised conventions. Later in the Neolithic, however, architectural forms showed greater uniformity, potentially signaling the emergence of codified building traditions.
This study not only challenges traditional interpretations but also highlights the social and technological changes accompanying the transition to permanent settlements and agricultural economies. The computational methodology offers an innovative lens to understand architectural history, demonstrating how quantitative analyses can uncover trends that remain hidden in qualitative approaches.
By emphasising the dynamic variability and technological ingenuity of early builders, this research sheds new light on the inception of architecture in the Levant and underscores the importance of integrating modern analytical tools into archaeological studies.
The research paper titled “A computational perspective on the dynamics of early architecture” is now available in Archaeological Research in Asia and can be accessed HERE.
Photo above:
Aerial photograph of structures at the Natufian site of Nahal Ein Gev II, demonstrating the variety of shapes. (Credit – Naftali Hilger)