Space-Time Analysis of Strongholds in the Southern Section of the Polish-Ruthenian Borderland with Particular Emphasis on Carpathian Centers, Research Using GIS Tools
Space-Time Analysis of Strongholds in the Southern Section of the Polish-Ruthenian Borderland with Particular Emphasis on Carpathian Centers, Research Using GIS Tools

Summary/Abstract: The article contains the findings of geoarchaeological research conducted by means of geoinformatics, related to various aspects of territory occupied in early Middle Ages by the so-called Cherven Towns. The issues presented in the publication concern the complex aspect of the borderland between Poland and the Rurik Rus during the formation of these two monarchies. The main objectives include: presenting the diverse time of strongholds’ use over the centuries within the early medieval borderland of south-eastern Poland, demonstrating the relationships between them, as well as visualizing the research findings by means of geoinformatics tools, based on geoarchaeological data. The article presents maps and visualizations that can help understand how medieval societies functioned. These maps and visualizations have been developed by means of GIS and graphical software. Data was verified by means of field research carried out in 2021 directly on the selected fortified settlements. The result comprises a variety of maps and models. The main outcome of the research is a mapped diversification of the termination of existence of the discussed defensive structures, for example, in the Wiar river catchment, which took place from the 11th century, near Sanok, until the 13th/14th century. This indicates a change in the defense strategy of these areas within the quoted territory of influence of medieval Poland and Rus, including within the range of the Carpathian arch.

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