Feldworks

Feldworks is a term used in archaeology and historical research to describe the remains of agricultural fields from past societies. These features can manifest in various forms, including ploughed terraces, ditches, field boundaries, and associated structures such as enclosures or huts. The study of feldworks helps researchers understand ancient agricultural practices, land use patterns, settlement organization, and the human impact on the landscape over time.

The identification and interpretation of feldworks often rely on a combination of techniques. Fieldwalking, where archaeologists systematically survey the ground surface for artifacts and subtle topographical changes, can reveal the outlines of former fields. Aerial photography and remote sensing, including LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), are particularly effective in identifying subtle earthworks that may not be visible from ground level. Excavation can provide more detailed information about the construction, use, and abandonment of feldworks, including soil stratigraphy and the recovery of tools or organic remains.

The appearance and preservation of feldworks vary greatly depending on the environment and the duration of time since their abandonment. In some areas, they may be remarkably well-preserved, while in others, they may have been eroded, ploughed over, or re-used for later agricultural purposes. The analysis of feldworks contributes to our understanding of how past populations sustained themselves, adapted to their environments, and shaped the rural landscapes we see today.