Abstract
Since the mid-twentieth century, fundamental landscape physiognomy transformations have been observed. A number of different methods of evaluation of landscape physiognomy values have been developed so far. Nonetheless, the assessment of changes occurring in landscape physiognomy still poses numerous methodological problems. The objective of the study is to propose an original “method of retrospective evaluation of landscape physiognomy changes” and to present the results of its testing in a fragment of the “West Polesie” Biosphere Reserve (CE Poland) over the period from 1838 to 2011. The method is based on the comparison of the present character of landscape physiognomy with its probable image at the beginning of the period analysed. Such a retrospective assessment of the state of landscape in the 1840s was performed based on the analysis of old topographic maps, literary and tourist descriptions, as well as the analysis of paintings, and since the 1950s also aerial and terrestrial photographs. The analysis of changes in landscape physiognomy covered a route of 12 km. Changes in landscape physiognomy were assessed on the route along five 1-km sections distributed fairly evenly over the entire route. Both the former and current landscape physiognomy values were assessed at a scale from 1 to 10 points according to five precisely defined criteria. The obtained bonitation results were presented in the form of tables and subject to comparative analysis. The results showed that in spite of the large scale of changes, certain areas retained very high physiognomic values and still represent unique genius loci of the Polesie region. These areas were suggested to be covered by particular protection. In other areas, landscape physiognomy changes have the character of discontinuation. In spite of the subjective character of individual assessments, results obtained suggest that the method is suitable for the identification of the traditional (conservative) features, and for the purposes of conservation and management of the identity of unique landscapes.
Highlights
Over the last decades, the pace of spatial development, changes in land use structure, changes in construction materials and technologies, production, and the creation of technical infrastructure have become faster than ever before
The results showed that in spite of the large scale of changes, certain areas retained very high physiognomic values and still represent unique genius loci of the Polesie region
A variety of methods have been developed, more or less subjective, for the assessment of the values of landscape physiognomy. Those methods can be classified into 3 main groups: (1) methods based on the description of the state of landscape, (2) methods based on the study of public preferences, and (3) methods based on quantitative holistic techniques (Buhyoff and Riesenman 1979)
Summary
The pace of spatial development, changes in land use structure, changes in construction materials and technologies, production, and the creation of technical infrastructure have become faster than ever before. Those processes entail increasing transformations of the structure and functioning of landscape systems (Zonneveld and Forman (ed.) 1990; Antrop 2000; Jongman 2002; Lindenmeyer and Fisher 2006; Chmielewski 2012a). Those changes have an enormous impact on landscape physiognomy. Those methods can be classified into 3 main groups: (1) methods based on the description of the state of landscape (evaluation of characteristic features of the area), (2) methods based on the study of public preferences, and (3) methods based on quantitative holistic techniques (Buhyoff and Riesenman 1979)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
