landskapsarkeologi

Landskapsarkeologi, or landscape archaeology, is a subfield of archaeology that focuses on the study of the relationship between past human activities and the environment. It moves beyond the examination of individual sites to consider how people interacted with and shaped their broader landscapes over time. This approach recognizes that human settlements, resource use, and movement patterns are embedded within larger spatial and ecological contexts.

Researchers in landscape archaeology utilize a variety of methods. These include traditional archaeological excavation and survey, but also the analysis of environmental data such as soil types, hydrology, and vegetation history. Remote sensing techniques like aerial photography and LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) are particularly important for identifying and mapping subtle archaeological features that may not be visible on the ground, revealing patterns of settlement, agriculture, and transportation across extensive areas.

The theoretical underpinnings of landscape archaeology often draw on concepts from geography, anthropology, and environmental science. It seeks to understand how cultural practices were influenced by, and in turn influenced, the natural world. This can involve studying ancient agricultural systems, the construction of roads and canals, the management of forests, and the symbolic or ritual significance of particular natural features. By analyzing these elements within their landscape context, archaeologists gain a more holistic understanding of past societies and their long-term interactions with their surroundings.