Factors influencing the site of settlements

• ·         Agricultural Land Use - is it suitable for farming?
• ·         Altitude - is it on high or low ground? (higher for defence)
• ·         Gradient - it is on a slope or flat? (flat = easy to build on)
• ·         Aspect - what features does it have?
• ·         Soils - are the soils fertile / easy to build on?
• ·         Water Supply - is there a good water supply?
• ·         Drainage and flooding - is the place prone to flooding?
• ·         Accessibility - how easy is it to access other areas and it?
• ·         Defense - is it safe?
• ·         Fuel Supply - is there a good source of fuel?