Landscape unit as an element of digital cultural heritage: theory and concepts on the example of Czułów

The article presents the role of the landscape unit in the context of digital cultural heritage, analysing the theoretical foundations and concepts on the example of Czułów, a village with a traditional agricultural landscape. In an era of rapid socio-economic change, which often leads to the degradation of traditional landscapes, digital technology is becoming a key instrument in the documentation, analysis and protection of cultural heritage. Modern technologies such as geographic information systems (GIS), 3D modelling, photogrammetry and remote sensing enable precise mapping and the reconstruction of historical land use. This enables a more detailed and comprehensive study of landscape structures and their dynamics, supporting conservation measures and sustainable development planning. The study of cultural landscapes, involving the analysis of structure, function and change over time, is crucial to understanding the complex relationship between humans and the environment. In particular, landscape units, such as the agricultural terraces at Czułów, reflect historical forms of land use and ways of adapting to natural conditions, thus being important elements of cultural heritage. Their protection and documentation with new technologies is essential to preserve these unique values for future generations. A multi-criteria approach, which combines different perspectives – geomorphological, use, ecological and cultural – is crucial in landscape analysis as it enables a more comprehensive recognition and understanding of the value of rural space. In this way, a more complete picture of landscape structure and function can be obtained, which is particularly important in terms of protecting agricultural landscapes such as Czułów. The traditional landscape of the village with elements of agricultural terraces and a mosaic of land uses represents not only a natural value but also a cultural one, reflecting the enduring interactions between man and nature. Rural landscapes here are not only a testimony to the historical use of the land, but also a place where the past meets the present, influencing the identity of local communities and shaping their future. Digital technologies allow for the documentation of both material and immaterial aspects of the landscape, fostering a better understanding of past land uses and cultural values that may not be apparent to the naked eye. This approach provides a more accurate assessment of historical and cultural values and leads to the planning of effective conservation strategies. The need to adapt conservation efforts to local environmental and social conditions and the challenges of digital archiving of heritage, such as authenticity and accuracy of historical reconstructions, should also be made clear.