protoarchaeology
/ˌproʊtoʊˌɑrkiˈɑlədʒi/
noun
- Early or primitive forms of the study of ancient human remains and artifacts, before modern archaeology developed.
- The writings of early antiquarians are considered part of protoarchaeology.
- Protoarchaeology laid the groundwork for modern archaeological methods.
- Protoarchaeology often involved treasure hunting rather than careful scientific excavation.