To understand this, we need to look at these basic concepts: (1) site (2)
situation (3) the history of the place.

Site refers to the characteristics of the place – its topography, altitude,
characteristics of water bodies like lakes,rivers, underground water, types of
soils, security, shelter from natural forces, and so on.,

In early settlement periods, places which had favourable water supply and
good protection from invasions were preferred. For example, Chhatrapati
Shivaji built a fort in Pratapgadh, Maharashtra. This site was chosen because
of its altitude from where all the surrounding areas could be seen. This provided
military security. Places do not exist in isolation. They are in some way
connected to other places.

Situation describes the connections with other places. For example:
Visakhapatnam is located on the coast and connects to many places in and outside
of India. Over the decades, Visakhapatnam’s population has grown
significantly (see next table 2).This growth is a result of the importance of
Visakhapatnam as a port city.This population increase also indicates growth in
economic and social opportunities.Visakhapatnam has a long history. It was ruled
by different dynasties during pre-colonial times.

During the 19th century, the British and French fought a naval battle
over this city. Coastal places were of immense significance for colonial
powers because they could build ports there.These ports wouldenable export
of raw materials to the colonising country.