Extended Matrix documentation
Extended Matrix is a formal language with which to document stratigraphy and virtual reconstruction processes. It is intended to be used by archaeologists and heritage specialists to keep track in a robust way of their scientific activities. The EM allows to record the sources used and the processes of analysis and synthesis that have led from scientific evidence to interpretation and reconstruction. It organises 3D archaeological record so that the 3D modelling steps are smoother, transparent and scientifically complete. Its development is leaded by E. Demetrescu at CNR-ISPC (Rome, former CNR-ITABC). EM is at its 1.4 version (a 1.5 version is currently under development).
Extended Matrix structure
The diagram shows the essential structure of Extended Matrix through its core components.

Fig. 1 Core components of Extended Matrix: Language, Framework and Knowledge Graph.
At the top is the Extended Matrix Language, which provides the formal notation system; the Extended Matrix Framework, which includes all necessary software tools; and the Multidimensional Knowledge Graph, which serves as the underlying graph database structure. These components work together to provide a comprehensive system for archaeological data management and interpretation. Their interconnection is ensured by the s3Dgraphy library (in the middle) that offers tools and rules to coherently read, write, manage, and convert the knowledge graph behind the EM.
Note
This documentation is related to a EM 1.5 development version: please pay attention that modifications may occur before releasing the final version.
Formal Language
- Canvas
- Nodes overview
- Stratigraphic Nodes
- General background on stratigraphic units (
StratigraphicNode
) - Stratigraphic units can be classified into main categories:
- 1. Physical Stratigraphic Units
- 2. USD - Documentary Stratigraphic Units (
DocumentaryStratigraphicUnit
) - 3. Virtual Stratigraphic Units (USV)
- 4. Special Finds and Virtual Special Finds (SF and VSF):
- 1. Transformation Stratigraphic Unit (
TransformationStratigraphicUnit
):
- General background on stratigraphic units (
- Auxiliary Stratigraphic nodes
- Activity Nodes Group
- Paradata Nodes
- Properties (Qualia)
- Document Nodes: Managing Archaeological Sources
- Extractor Types
- Paradata Nodes Group
- Connectors
- Time Branches Groups
- Data Funnel Structure
- Utilities and Minor Nodes