Viewshed Analysis

Viewshed analysis examines what is visible from specific locations or within a defined area using digital elevation models (DEMs) and geographic information systems (GIS). Pioneered by David Wheatley in the 1990s, the method reveals how landscape features (hilltops, valleys, water sources) controlled visibility and movement. Archaeologists use viewshed analysis to understand settlement placement, ritual monument visibility, and territorial organization in prehistoric and historic landscapes.