The Landscape of Ancient Caere through Historic Air Photographs

This paper briefly shows the use of an analysis of a large number of IGM 1930 glass slide negatives and an accurate photo interpretation of cropmarks to create a particular view of the territory of ancient Caere, almost 30 km NW of Rome. This territory was covered by a great number of tumuli and tombs of different kind, giving a very strong and impressive sensation of power and wealth. Topographical analysis of the case study area by direct survey, field-checking and revision of previous data and pertinent documentation (bibliographic, public and private archives and information in loco, etc.) was accompanied by examination and analysis of historical and recent aerial photographs from different archives, with additional monitoring flights over areas of risk. The aim was to obtain an historical perspective of the territory to help the protection of cultural heritage remains, meet the need for the establishment of a global Cultural Heritage cadastre connected to studies for legal protection and enjoyment of great interest sites, and finally, not least, for a correct territorial planning.