The Beligerative Landscapes of Ukraine

Abstract

In the structure of modern landscapes in Ukraine, special attention is deserved by beligerative (from Latin beligero—to wage war) landscape complexes. They are widespread throughout Ukraine, but only in the late 20th to early 21st centuries did they capture the attention of researchers. The aim is to analyze the current state and functioning of beligerative landscapes in the plains of Ukraine in order to develop measures for their further rational use and conservation. In the study of beligerative landscapes, principles of historicism, natural-anthropogenic compatibility, and related methods were applied, including historical-landscape analysis, compilation of historical-genetic series of landscape maps, analysis of final results, comparative method of natural analogs, analysis of beligerative landscape complexes as components of a paragenetic system, and GIS-technologies. The widespread distribution and significant diversity of belligerent landscape complexes within the plains of Ukraine have made it possible to identify a number of beligerative areas and corresponding sites. Among the largest typical ones are the areas of fortified points with sites of defensive ramparts, defensive ditches, and scarps; areas of isolated defensive ramparts with corresponding sites of earthen multi-age ramparts and ditches; areas of defensive lines with a complex system of beligerative sites such as fortresses, ramparts, redoubts, firing points, entrenchments, and more. The directions for their restoration are substantiated for further rational use as specific objects of scientific research, tourist and reserve sites, and objects for the development of local studies and patriotic education. It is noted that the rational use and conservation of beligerative landscapes should be implemented in the form of beligerative geosites—anthropogenic formations of military origin with corresponding territories. Beligerative landscapes formed as a result of russian military aggression are partially discussed and require further research.