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Institute of Archaeology, University College London, 31-34 Gordon Square, London WC1H 0PY, UK
Since the advent of mankind many human societies have lived in volcanically active zones. The geological, archaeological and historical records provide a rich and diverse source of evidence for both archaeology and volcanology concerning the nature of volcanic processes and the effects of volcanism on the environment and on human society. To achieve a balanced understanding of the effects of volcanism on past cultures, it is important to consider the attractions as well as the hazards of life in an actively volcanic zone. This paper gives an overview of some of the ways in which a wide range of volcanic products were used by mankind in antiquity. These include the use of volcanic rocks as stone tools, as substrates for rock carvings, as materials for building and sculpture, as millstones, as additives to make cements that set under water, and, more indirectly, as precursors of fertile earths for agriculture and as sources of metals and semi-precious stones. The paper also considers some of the properties of volcanic products that may have made them attractive. Assessment of the interaction of past cultures with volcanism is highly relevant to the present: it can provide the temporal perspective needed to deal appropriately with the human aspects of contemporary and future volcanic hazards.
