Human interactions with the sandstone landscape of central Sudetes

Abstract

The paper examines the history of human interactions with the specific plateau and cuesta morphology developed upon Cretaceous sedimentary sequences in the Middle Sudetes, Central Europe (Poland, Czech Republic). Lithological contrasts influence relief at regional and local scale, providing diverse opportunities and limits to human activities since medieval times until the present. As a result a complex cultural landscape underpinned by geomorphology evolved through time, illustrating the concept of ‘sandstone phenomenon’. The following interactions with the physical landscape are identified: avoidance, adaptation, modification, and withdrawal. Although early modifications occurred in the late medieval period, adaptation rather than direct human impact typified the area until the mid-18th century. The expansion of settlement network in later times, along with forest clearance, development of quarrying and growth of tourism have led to substantial modifications of the geomorphological landscape and the origin of a suite of anthropic landforms. Depopulation of the region, particularly on the now Polish side, amplified after World War II, resulted in land use changes and renaturalization of many areas. Many previously occupied areas have been abandoned and various forms of nature and landscape protection now provide limitations to further development. Modification is tightly controlled, while re-adaptation is preferred and promoted, driven not by physical constraints anymore but by changing attitudes and increasing environmental awareness.