Reconstructing “total” paleo-landscapes for archaeological investigation: an example from the central Netherlands

It is common procedure today to use geographic datasets to supplement archaeological investigation; however, static and modern-day data are often used rather than more accurate paleo-data. This article underscores the importance of employing such dynamic paleo-landscapes, and describes a new approach for developing richly-furnished and detailed spatial surfaces, referred to as “total” landscapes. GIS and computer simulation programs are critical to the generation of such surfaces, along with geospatial data of sufficient quality and quantity. The approach is articulated vis-à-vis a case study from the central Netherlands.

► Static or current geographic datasets are unfit for archaeological investigation. ► A method for reconstructing “total” paleo-landscape models is presented. ► Paleo-landscape models can help generate and test hypotheses of human behavior. ► Such models can also be used to guide future fieldwork.