Author(s)

A. Tsouchlaraki

Abstract

This paper proposes the concept of an integrated classification and mapping system for landscape scenic quality, which will make use of digital ground photographs as the landscape’s evaluation means, texture measurement indices for the automated classification of the landscape’s scenic quality, a GPS receiver for defining the co-ordinates of the shooting points of the photographs, and a GIS for the analysis and the mapping of the results. The basic advantages of the system proposed are: the evaluation of the view offered in an area, taking into account the perspective conditions of observation and not the plan view conditions as depicted on maps, aerial photographs and telescopic representations; the use of a simple and economical mechanical equipment for on-site data acquisition; the automated classification of the scenic quality depicted on the photographs; and the use of simple mapping methods with a Geographical Information System. The paper examines basic issues regarding the design of the system proposed and its implementation. When completed, the system will facilitate the creation of landscape maps, with many applications in environmental planning. Keywords: landscape scenic quality, landscape classification and mapping system, digital ground photographs, GIS, GPS. 1 Introduction Landscape is the combined result of physiography, geological formations, vegetation, waters and the various cultural interventions that occur in a given area. This combination attributes shape, line, colour and texture to a landscape, while the aesthetic result is considered on the basis of the variety or the

Keywords

landscape scenic quality, landscape classification and mapping system, digital ground photographs, GIS, GPS.