historic ruins; archaeological site
Formal or literary term for the remains of an ancient structure or settlement. Often used in historical or archaeological contexts.
Many earthenware pieces were excavated from these historic ruins.
foundations of an ancient building
Specifically refers to the base or structural remnants of an old building, rather than the broader site. Also formal/literary.
The foundations of the ancient temple were excavated, revealing the architectural style of that period.
遺跡 is the common, everyday word for archaeological sites or ruins. 古址 is more formal and literary, often used in academic or poetic contexts.
Standard kanji spelling for historic ruins or ancient foundations.
Variant spelling using 趾 (footprint, trace); less common but seen in some contexts.
Rare variant using 故 (old, former); may appear in older texts.
Composed of 古 (old) and 址 (site, foundation). The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the kanji combination directly conveys 'old site'.