Calculating connectivity patterns in delta landscapes: Modelling Roman and early-medieval route networks and their stability in dynamic lowlands
Rowin J. van Lanen|H.J. Pierik
River landscapes can be regarded as amongst the most densely populated regions in world. Despite their dynamic nature and susceptibility to natural hazards, pull factors such fertile soils trade connections always have attracted people these regions. During Roman (12 BCE – 450 CE) early-medieval periods (450 CE–1050) Rhine-Meuse delta Netherlands underwent significant simultaneous cultural environmental changes changing settlement patterns, collapse of limes, flooding regimes river avulsions. Past route networks are influenced by both dynamics therefore a useful tool better understand complex interaction between dynamics. By applying enhancing recently-developed methods modelling lowlands, this study reconstructs connectivity patterns delta. Based on newly-available high-resolution geoscientific archaeological data, network-friction maps were calculated for three time slices: 100 CE, 500 900. These modelled validated using archaeologically-excavated infrastructural isolated finds. Additionally amount network stability was calculated. Results show that each zones clear correlation exist occurrence Although periodic differences correlations percentages visible. research area routes signs stability, with 80% CE being persistent counterparts. Between 900 persistence percentage slightly rises 81% indicating similar level stability. This shows large parts persistently used during period Early Middle Ages despite local settings.
Quaternary International