Sophie DAVID USING LIDAR IN A LANDSCAPE STUDY: the Forest of Fontainebleau (Seine-et-Marne and Essonne)

Abstract

From an archaeological perspective, the Fontainebleau forest area is known primarily for its numerous decorated rock-shelters, often dating from prehistory. Collaboration between the regional archaeological office and the national forestry office has allowed LIDAR aerial survey of this extensive forest. The purpose was to update the archaeological database in order to implement protective measures for sites affected by forestry activity. Following interpretation of the LIDAR data, field work was used to verify identified archaeological anomalies. Field-walking has consequently confirmed the existence of 167 sites dating from prehistory to the second World War. Knowledge of the area has been completely renewed, particularly for the Roman period for which the number of known sites has gone from 8 to 45: these are invariably related to land boundaries.

Keywords