Phys. Geog. Geom. 2025, 48(2): 40–49

https://doi.org/10.17721/phgg.2025.48.2/130.04

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Cartographic modeling of the spatial structural organization of landscapes of the Dnipropetrovsk region 

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Oleh V. Syzenko

Oles Honchar Dnipro National University, 72 Nauky Ave., Dnipro, 49045, Ukraine

 

Abstract

The research aims to substantiate and approve a method for the anthropocentric assessment of visual landscape diversity, using the Dnipropetrovsk region as a case study. The work addresses the gap between traditional 2D mapping and the observer's spatial perception, allowing for the quantitative evaluation of landscape visual diversity and its structure.The study integrates GIS-based modeling methods, utilizing the Copernicus GLO-30 Digital Surface Model and ESA WorldCover data. The analysis involves two types of indicators: total viewshed to evaluate the general visual potential of the territory, and cumulative viewshed to determine the structural features of scenery from a regular grid. Diversity was assessed using landscape metrics (Shannon’s Diversity Index, Interspersion and Juxtaposition Index, and Cohesion Index). The author developed and calculated an Integrated Visual Heterogeneity Index (VHI).The article presents the cartographic modeling of the spatial structural organization of the region's scenery. It was revealed that the physiognomic characteristics of viewscapes in the Dnipropetrovsk region significantly depend on relief morphology and land-use patterns. It was established that the highest indicators of visual heterogeneity are inherent not only to naturally dissected terrains (Prydniprovska Upland) but also to anthropogenically transformed mining districts (Kryvyi Rih and Nikopol areas), which form distinctive "technogenic oases" of visual diversity amidst monotonous agrolandscapes.The proposed approach treats scenery as objective spatial compositions. This enables the quantitative characterization of scenery as carriers (sources) of cultural ecosystem services, representing a significant step toward implementing the European Landscape Convention. The developed model considers the visual aspects of the landscape and can be applied in landscape planning, recreational assessment, and the conservation of landscape resource potential.

Keywords

viewshed, viewscape, visual heterogeneity, land surface, landscape physiognomy, isopleth mapping, VHI- isopleths

 

Received: 26 December  2025 / Accepted: 19 January 2026 / Published online: 21 January  2026