When Data Meets the Past: Data Collection, Sharing, and Reuse in Ancient World Studies

Abstract This article explores the challenges and opportunities of adopting data-driven approaches in Ancient World (AW) studies, focusing on the complexities of data collection, curation, and analysis in the field. We address issues such as defining data for AW studies, as well as data fragmentation, standardization, and interoperability. We propose solutions to enhance data accessibility, collaboration, and reuse, demonstrating that adopting standardized formats and adhering to FAIR principles can improve data sharing and enable large-scale, interdisciplinary research. Importantly, we highlight how qualitative and quantitative approaches can coexist, enriching the field. We also review different past and ongoing initiatives supporting data-driven methodologies in AW studies and advocate for their continued expansion. Lastly, we discuss the rise of data papers as a transformative tool for bridging traditional scholarship and digital methodologies, emphasizing the importance of data sets and their potential for reuse in advancing the field.