Time and Space
The common point of contact for the seven fields represented in the Centre of Excellence Estonian Roots lies in time and space. To make sense of the phenomena occurring within these fields, it is necessary to jointly organise discipline‑specific data and adapt relevant methods. The resulting synergy broadens the local perspective and places the cultural and genetic history of our development into a wider (European) context.
Ongoing Case Studies
1. Regional Patterns: Information on Estonia and Neighbouring Countries
Leads: Mari Väina and Taavi Pae (folkloristics and cultural geography)
Members: Anne‑Mai Ilumäe (archaeogenomics), Pikne Kama (archaeology), Monika Karmin (archaeogenomics), Miina Norvik (linguistics), Ester Oras (archaeochemistry), Siiri Rootsi (archaeogenomics), Mari Tõrv (archaeochemistry)
DESCRIPTION
The aim of this case study is to clarify how (core) areas and the boundaries between them appear on maps across different fields, both within Estonia and more broadly. Which boundary lines have been significant at different times, and how are they reflected in the material we examine?
To achieve this, we plan first to compile and make available for reuse (where possible together with underlying data) the most important maps previously created in various fields concerning Estonia and its neighbouring countries. A selection of key maps will be published as the Scientific Atlas of Estonia, and the underlying data will be made publicly accessible as a digital dataset. The existence of this map collection will enable future transdisciplinary research into spatiotemporal patterns.
The working group on regional patterns is also exploring ways to improve the mapping skills of CoE members. One plan is to design a unified map template that can be used for visualising map data across the centre’s different research groups.
We welcome new members from: archaeozoology, paleoclimate and paleoecology groups.
2. Spatiotemporal Data
Leads: Kaarel Sikk and Taavi Pae
Members:
DESCRIPTION
The spatiotemporal data case study focuses on datasets from different fields and examines how the temporal and spatial information they contain can help interpret the formation of Estonia’s history. The goal is to map data types ranging from molecular markers to folkloristic and archaeological descriptions, assessing their temporal depth, spatial precision, the nature of documented facts, and possibilities for comparison. By bringing together existing databases and source material, the study identifies shared theoretical and methodological foundations that enable coherent analysis of spatiotemporal patterns across disciplines.
