Abstract:Based on the theory of human-land relations, this study quantitatively analyses how different environmental factors influence the spatial distribution of settlements, and thoroughly examines the intrinsic connections between regional environments and settlement site selection and spatial distribution. This research provides a scientific basis for volcanic geological disaster risk assessment, traditional settlement protection, and sustainable development. Taking the typical volcanic geological region of Leizhou City as the research object, 247 traditional volcanic settlements within were selected as research samples. Spatial analysis methods including kernel density analysis, average nearest neighbor index analysis, and buffer zone analysis were employed to systematically reveal the spatial distribution characteristics and site selection wisdom of traditional settlements in the study area. The study indicates that, constrained by volcanic topography, soil, and hydrological factors, traditional volcanic settlements in Leizhou City exhibit significant spatial imbalance and clustering, with a higher concentration along the coast than inland, ultimately forming the typical distribution patterns of 'near the sea-adjacent to fields' and adjacent to mountains-adjacent to fields.'
