Relics and transformation of former ponds in the urban environment of the historical region of Bohemia (Czech Republic)

Abstract

The rapid expansion of urban areas has been a feature of the industrial age. Landscape features have been replaced or transformed to accommodate the needs of an increasingly urban society. Our study focuses on the disappearance or transformation of man-made ponds in the historic region of Bohemia in the Czech Republic. Using current and historic maps, orthophotography and a digital terrain model, we have identified over one thousand former ponds within the 34 cities that were selected. The original dam structures have been identified in association with 437 ponds, most of which have been used as embankments for transport infrastructure. In areas within the immediate vicinity of the cities, modern agriculture now utilizes the sites of former ponds. The Main Map shows the results of our survey, revealing the quantity and nature of this landscape change together with a detailed case study in the city of Pilsen.

Keywords

• pond dam
• historical landscape
• urban environment
• anthropogenic geomorphology
• czech republic