title: The 3-D reconstruction of medieval wetland reclamation through electromagnetic induction survey.
abstract: Studies of past human-landscape interactions rely upon the integration of archaeological, biological and geological information within their geographical context. However, detecting the often ephemeral traces of human activities at a landscape scale remains difficult with conventional archaeological field survey. Geophysical methods offer a solution by bridging the gap between point finds and the surrounding landscape, but these surveys often solely target archaeological features. Here we show how simultaneous mapping of multiple physical soil properties with a high resolution multi-receiver electromagnetic induction (EMI) survey permits a reconstruction of the three-dimensional layout and pedological setting of a medieval reclaimed landscape in Flanders (Belgium). Combined with limited and directed excavations, the results offer a unique insight into the way such marginal landscapes were reclaimed and occupied during the Middle Ages. This approach provides a robust foundation for unravelling complex historical landscapes and will enhance our understanding of past human-landscape interactions.
authors.affiliation: Department of Soil Management, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure 653, 9000 Gent, Belgium. Philippe.DeSmedt@UGent.be
authors.forename: Philippe
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: De Smedt
authors.forename: Marc
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Van Meirvenne
authors.forename: Davy
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Herremans
authors.forename: Jeroen
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: De Reu
authors.forename: Timothy
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Saey
authors.forename: Eef
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Meerschman
authors.forename: Philippe
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Crombé
authors.forename: Wim
authors.initials: W
authors.lastname: De Clercq
mesh_terms: D001106:Archaeology; D001530:Belgium; D055590:Electromagnetic Phenomena; D060733:Electromagnetic Radiation; D005844:Geology; D006801:Humans; D012987:Soil; D053833:Wetlands
chemical_list: D012987:Soil