Modelling the Topography of the Ancient Laurion: Epigraphical Sources, Mental Maps and GIS

Abstract

In this contribution, we present an attempt to approach the past landscape of the Lavrion area, considering inscriptions dated to the 4th cent. BCE, recording the leases of the mines by the Athenian polity to individuals (the poletae record), as mental maps. The research aim is threefold: first, to reconstruct a flexible set of abstract mental maps, beyond a defined geometric space, in order to explore the network of spatial relationships defined in the epigraphical record and the social and economic meanings involved; second, to develop a methodology for the production of an “intermediate” map, spatially and geometrically correct, which transforms the mental map into an intra-referential map; third, final goal is to proceed to a reconstruction (insofar it is possible) of the landscape and the topographical layout of the area as in the 4th cent. BCE.