The Role of the Road in Settling a Mountainous Region

Research reveals that ancient road networks played a pivotal role in the settlement of mountainous regions, particularly in central Slovakia. By analyzing high-resolution LiDAR data and conducting walkthrough surveys, scientists reconstructed historical routes connecting mineral-rich areas to broader trade networks, including potential bypasses of the Amber Road. The study demonstrates how these routes influenced settlement patterns, either by facilitating the establishment of new settlements or by linking existing ones. This sheds light on ancient route planning strategies and their impact on regional development.

Miňo, M. (2023). The Role of the Road in Settling a Mountainous Region. Open Archaeology, 9(1). https://doi.org/10.1515/opar-2022-0297