Środowiskowe uwarunkowania lokalizacji wczesnośredniowiecznego grodu w Rękoraju (Polska Środkowa)
Environmental determinants of the location of the Early Medieval stronghold in Rękoraj (Central Poland)

Summary/Abstract: The subject of this study is a detailed analysis of the environmental determinants influencing the location of the early medieval stronghold in Rękoraj, with particular emphasis on geological, geomorphological, and hydrological factors. Field investigations were conducted over an area of approximately 80 km², encompassing a 5 km radius around the stronghold, corresponding to the zone actively exploited by humans during the early medieval period. The location of the fortification was closely linked to the natural attributes of the terrain, including a moderate slope inclination (2–2.5o), terraces composed of fine- and medium-grained sands, and a dense network of small river valleys and denudation valleys that facilitated the penetration of the highlands. Despite the limited agricultural potential of the study area, favourable conditions for the implementation of so-called light agrotechnology existed within the immediate vicinity of the stronghold. Furthermore, the fortifications were situated on a promontory of the upland, delineated by river valleys on the eastern and northern sides, and by a dry valley to the south. This topographic arrangement conferred significant defensive advantages.

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