Anthropogenic relief changes in a long‐lasting lignite mining area (‘Ville’, Germany) derived from historic maps and digital elevation models

Abstract Humans constitute one of the main geomorphological agents in modern times. As an example, post‐mining regions represent a typical landscape Anthropocene. Strong relief modifications are particularly obvious with open pit mining. However, many existing mining areas lacking detailed pre‐mining information for quantification anthropogenic changes, which is considerable challenge historic activities. Here, Ville (Rhenish lignite district, Germany) used to quantify surface induced changes oldest and currently largest districts Europe. Historical maps from first geodetic mapping 1893 enabled construction digital elevation model comparison data 2000 2015. The vertical accuracy remarkably high, differences < 2 m not affected by In total, 49.2% investigated area (184 km ) shows deficit 14.5% has positive differences. Absolute account more than 80 heightening (dumpsites overburden) lowering natural (pits). Besides these altitudinal overall steeper slopes significant new topography, but levelling exists likewise. spatial variabilities discussed context regional geology techniques. Undoubtedly, such large‐scale persist very long time will last as human legacy far into future. Only reconstruction offers ability clarify dimension humans understand perception. Due fact that impact large horizontal extension, their consideration part anthropogeomorphology can significantly contribute support future Critical Zone research