The concept describes how different groups of people move into a location over time, each group shaping the environment in their own way. The lasting impact of these successive inhabitants is visible in the cultural landscape. For instance, a city might exhibit architectural styles and land-use patterns reflecting multiple historical periods and diverse cultural influences, each left by a different occupying group. An example could be found in many European cities showcasing Roman ruins, medieval fortifications, and modern buildings, all coexisting within the same urban space.
This geographical principle provides a framework for understanding the complexities of cultural landscapes and the evolution of place. It allows geographers and historians to analyze the tangible and intangible legacies of past societies. Studying these legacies reveals how human-environment interactions change and accumulate over time, fostering a deeper appreciation for the historical depth and cultural richness of specific locations. This approach helps to explain present-day cultural characteristics and land-use patterns by tracing their historical development.
