What are the oldest forms of legal descriptions for land parcels?

The oldest forms of legal descriptions for land parcels include metes and bounds, which is a system that has been in use since ancient times. This method describes land by using physical features of the geography, distances, and directions to establish the boundaries of a parcel. It relies on identifiable landmarks and measurements, thereby providing a way to delineate properties before more modern systems were developed.

Lot and block is a more contemporary method, typically used in urban subdivisions, where land is divided into blocks and lots within a larger parcel; however, metes and bounds remains older as it precedes the development of subdivision systems. The combination of metes and bounds, being one of the first methods of land description, paired with lot and block creates a more complete understanding of land delineation methods, although the latter is not as historically rooted.

In contrast, while the other options mention different descriptions, they do not accurately encompass the oldest forms because they include systems that emerged later or are specific to certain contexts. Therefore, the presence of metes and bounds in conjunction with another legal description method that has historical significance reaffirms the accuracy of the identified correct option.