Effective criteria and indicators in identifying valuable villages

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 PhD student in Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Shahid Beheshti University

2 Professor of Shahid Beheshti University Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning

3 دانشکده ی معماری

4 shahid beheshti university

Abstract

Iran boasts numerous historical and culturally significant villages that serve as living testaments to the traditions and lifestyles of bygone eras. Before implementing any interventions or protective measures, it is imperative to possess accurate knowledge about these villages. With Iran's diverse cultural landscape of historical villages, understanding their significance and categorizing their value types is essential for effective planning, decision-making, and preservation efforts.

Superficial understanding and disregard for the values of these villages frequently exacerbate the threats to their preservation and integrity. Hence, a thorough understanding of their values is indispensable for any protection-oriented interventions.

In contemporary conservation discourse, the focus has shifted from questioning the existence or value of historical sites to defining and measuring their significance. Identifying and assessing these values and establishing criteria for evaluation are crucial steps in determining their importance and type. Values serve as the guiding principles for discerning what aspects of a historical site are significant and should be prioritized in conservation efforts.

To elucidate the concept of value within the context of villages and rural areas, it is essential to consult various sources, including charters, statements, and the perspectives of theorists specializing in rural heritage. By synthesizing these insights, researchers aim to develop a comprehensive understanding of the key values and components associated with rural heritage.

Key research questions include defining the concept of value in the context of villages, identifying critical components according to charters and theorists, and delineating effective criteria and indicators for identifying valuable villages. Through a methodical approach combining library research and qualitative analysis, researchers have compiled a classification system for evaluating villages based on both physical and metaphysical dimensions.

The research process involved analyzing 88 charters and the viewpoints of theorists, resulting in the identification of 18 key components and 44 values. Subsequent analysis led to the extraction of 49 criteria indicators and 103 measurement indicators, categorized into physical and metaphysical criteria. These criteria encompass various aspects such as establishment, spatial organization, social-cultural dynamics, economic-political factors, and environmental considerations.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Soffeh

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 29 September 2025

Files

History

  • Receive Date: 17 April 2024
  • Revise Date: 11 July 2024
  • Accept Date: 23 September 2024

Share

How to cite

Statistics