From the impressionistic brushstrokes of Borra's map to the crisp contour lines of later maps, the representation of complex topography in two dimensions has been a vexing problem. Borra's map gives an immediate and intuitive impression of the rugged landscape of Sardis. Contour lines, though more objective, do not give such a clear impression of the terrain. Digitizing the Turkish maps makes it possible to model the topography in the computer.

Topographic models are also used in regional studies of Lydia--for instance, the distribution of tumulus tombs, the most recognizable pre-Hellenistic features of the landscape (shown in yellow).This distribution is probably related to the locations of settlements, and to fertile land, minerals, and important ancient routes. The tumuli were surveyed with a Global Positioning System, and are plotted over a topographic model of the region. The false-color satellite image on which the tumuli are shown can reveal much about the land cover and resources of the Sardis region. Healthy vegetation appears red, for instance; clear water is black, and built-up areas or bare soil are bluish gray.

For more information about this digital model of the inside of Lale Tepe tumulus tomb, visit the Infinite Points Computer Mapping segment of this program.


Virtual View of the Sardis Region Showing Tumuli and Settlements: Nicholas D. Cahill, Christopher H. Roosevelt, 2003. Computer-generated drawing. Archaeological Exploration of Sardis, M-140