What does the term "cultural landscape" refer to?

The term "cultural landscape" refers to the visible imprint of human activity on the landscape. It encompasses the ways in which human beings have shaped and modified their environment through various practices, such as agriculture, architecture, urban planning, and transportation. This concept emphasizes the interaction between humans and their environment, highlighting how cultural beliefs, values, and activities influence the physical characteristics of a region.

Cultural landscapes can include anything from a city skyline, agricultural fields, or historical monuments to rural villages, showcasing how human societies adapt to and transform their surroundings over time. This perspective allows geographers to analyze not just the physical features of a place, but also the cultural significance and history embedded within those features, providing insight into the identity and heritage of different communities.