Arachne (archaeological database)

Arachne is a central object database maintained by the Archaeological Institute of the University of Cologne and the German Archaeological Institute (DAI). Its primary purpose is to provide archaeologists and researchers with a comprehensive online resource for accessing information and visual materials related to archaeological objects and sites.

The database aims to collate and standardize data from various sources, including excavations, museum collections, and research projects, creating a unified platform for accessing fragmented information. This aggregation is crucial for facilitating interdisciplinary research and comparison across different regions and periods.

Arachne focuses primarily on Classical Archaeology, but its scope also encompasses related fields, such as Ancient History, Classical Philology, and Art History. While its geographical focus is initially centered on the Mediterranean region, the database is gradually expanding to include materials from other areas of archaeological significance.

The database structure centers around objects, allowing users to search and browse based on various criteria, including material, type, provenance, chronology, and associated literature. Detailed information about each object is often accompanied by images, plans, and other supplementary materials, contributing to a more complete understanding of the archaeological context.

Arachne is freely accessible online and serves as a valuable tool for researchers, students, and anyone interested in archaeology. It promotes the dissemination of archaeological knowledge and facilitates collaboration among scholars worldwide. Data contributions are typically made by institutions and researchers involved in archaeological fieldwork, museum curation, and scholarly research, ensuring the continued growth and relevance of the database. The project emphasizes data quality and standardization, employing controlled vocabularies and consistent data entry procedures to maintain accuracy and reliability.