Search Results (56)

Studies on colonial grid urban planning often use the later examples of cities founded in peninsular Spain towards the end of the 15th century as a basis for understanding the principles applied in new foundations in the Americas. This study proposes that the city of San Cristóbal de la Laguna (1496) functioned as a final urban-planning experiment, an intermediate point in the Canary Islands that enriched the experiences of early colonial urban planning. This first model of a city-territory, which lacked a defensive character due to its insularity, developed a grid adapted to the terrain, organising a new social order inspired by the religious doctrine of the time, in which religious architecture, mainly convents as well as churches, hermitages and hospitals, played a central role in the origin and consolidation of the city’s urban layout. By comparing this case study with the first American examples, Santo Domingo (1502), the first island city, and Panama Viejo (1519), the first city on the mainland, which are all UNESCO World Heritage Sites, we are able to verify the influence of this intermediate urban planning model on the evolutionary process of the early colonial model and confirm the role of convent foundations as structural elements shaping the territory. Full article

Research on the characteristics and functions of ancient Juntun (military tillage) has paid limited attention to the distribution patterns and influencing factors of Juntun in specific regions. This study employs a comprehensive approach integrating GIS technology and the multi-scale geographically weighted regression (MGWR) model to quantitatively analyze the spatial distribution characteristics and influencing factors of Ming Dynasty Juntun in Fujian. The study reveals that Juntun were primarily located in flat areas near water systems, while exhibiting a U-shaped distribution pattern away from garrison forts, reflecting a synergy between agricultural foundations and military defense. MGWR analysis further indicates that fiscal and taxation factors had a stronger influence on their distribution than arable land resources, highlighting their non-purely agriculturally driven nature. This research provides a quantitative basis for understanding the organizational logic and spatial strategy of ancient military settlements, offering valuable insights for the conservation and study of military heritage. Full article

This paper presents the results of a multidisciplinary research project carried out over the past two years by the Archaeological Mapping Laboratory at the CNR-ISPC, Lecce, and the Heritage Materials Science group at the CNR-ISPC, Florence, in collaboration with the PASAP Med Ph.D. Programme at the University of Bari “Aldo Moro”. The investigation focuses on stone procurement strategies employed by the Messapian settlement at Ugento, near the Ionian coast of Salento. Archaeological surveys within its territory and surrounding areas enabled the identification and petrographic characterization of ancient extraction sites, allowing for the classification of several calcarenite types. Systematic sampling and petrographic analyses of archaeological specimens shed light on the sourcing strategies adopted for both the construction of the city’s defensive walls—erected in the mid-4th century BCE—and selected architectural and sculptural elements preserved in the Ugento Archaeological Museum and the Colosso Collection, dating from the Archaic to the Hellenistic periods. The analyses show that the availability of lithotypes in the region significantly influenced construction techniques, particularly in the city walls, while in certain cases—such as specific architectural elements made of pietra leccese—it required the import of lithologies absent from the immediate vicinity. Full article

This study examines how the values of authenticity and integrity can be integrated into territorial and landscape planning, moving beyond a restoration-based view of heritage. It focuses on the defensive architecture system of Castellón province (Spain), which features around 150 fortifications forming a continuous landscape between coastal and inland areas. In a context of urban pressure, rural depopulation, and heritage tourism, this research explores how the management of these assets can be aligned with coherent territorial strategies. The aim is to assess the material, visual, and symbolic coherence of the system and to understand the tensions between physical conservation, cultural authenticity, and landscape transformation. The methodology combines documentary review, spatial analysis using GIS, and fieldwork, applying qualitative indicators of material authenticity, territorial integrity, and scenic value adapted from ICOMOS guidance and established scientific literature. The results reveal a clear contrast: 62% of urban castles are restored or consolidated, while 71% of rural ones remain in ruins, and 82% preserve high visual integrity. This paradox shows that heritage sustainability is less dependent on formal reconstruction (only 14% are fully restored) than on maintaining relationships between architecture, environment, and community. This study proposes an integrated territorial management approach that links conservation, use, and landscape as interdependent components of a single cultural system. Full article

The maritime defence settlements of the Ming Dynasty are a key component of China’s military cultural heritage. This study examines the three coastal defence sectors of Fujian by establishing a three-tier evaluation framework utilising GIS spatial analysis and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) for quantitative assessment. The findings reveal that the synergy between military outposts significantly enhances overall defence effectiveness, while the independent defence capability of each stronghold is crucial for withstanding external threats. A comprehensive evaluation further indicates that the Fujian central coastal defence sector, characterized by its robust economy and densely distributed fortifications, demonstrates the highest level of defensive performance. By systematically quantifying the defensive performance of Fujian’s maritime defence settlements, this study develops an evaluation model that provides a scientific basis and decision support for value assessment, sustainable conservation, and adaptive reuse of this category of military cultural heritage. Full article

Throughout history, humans have used the environment to build structures for defense. Fortifications are clear examples of buildings created to better protect important settlements and homes. Over time, these structures have gone beyond their original purpose of shielding residents inside and around the walls, now functioning as complex centers for political, economic, administrative, and cultural governance. Additionally, communication networks have been established between strongholds, forming a defensive system for a region or country. Therefore, Fortifications and military heritage exemplify typologies of heritage developed in an organic relationship with the unique environment shaped by human activities. Walled towns are safeguarded by maintaining their functions or being designated cultural heritage among these fortifications and military heritage. Through this study, we analyze the Haemi-eupseong Walled Town (in Korean ‘읍성,’ in Chinese ‘邑城’) as one of Korea’s typical walled towns concerning the attributes that reflect the authenticity according to ‘the Operational Guidelines for the Implementation of the World Heritage Convention’ and examine the efforts of the conservation management entity to sustain and utilize this authority by applying the theory and methodology outlined in the ICOMOS Guidelines on Fortifications and Military Heritage, officially adopted in 2021 by ICOMOS, the cultural heritage advisory body under UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee, to Haemi-eupseong. The goal is to explore theoretical approaches to heritage value, develop systematic methods for heritage utilization, and propose strategies for sustainably preserving the importance of heritage. Full article

The settlements of the Great Wall are the product of the overlap of ancient Chinese agricultural civilization and non-agricultural civilization. The structure of the settlement system is of great value for understanding the law of defense engineering and social spatial organization. The Great Wall, built by a non-agricultural civilization, is an important part of the development history of the Chinese civilization. Its uniqueness reflects the relationship between institution and space. However, the archaeological remains and related research methods for non-agricultural Great Wall settlements are not perfect. This paper takes the typical case of the Great Wall built by a non-agricultural civilization (Linhuang Lu settlements of the Jin Great Wall) as the object and integrates spatial analysis and social network analysis. It aims to explore the structure of the settlement system. The settlements of Linhuang Lu show non-random distribution characteristics. They can be divided into four levels. The number ratio from high-level to low-level settlements is 70:30:10:1. Through the weighted Voronoi and social network analysis of human connection and geographical connection, this paper clarifies the structural characteristics of spatial association and social association of settlements. Combined with accessibility and geographical environment, the Linhuang Lu settlements were finally divided into 10 Meng’an defense units and 12 Mouke defense units. Quantitative analysis of the settlement system structure shows the hierarchical management of nature and military by non-agricultural civilization. This provides an empirical basis for the reconstruction of the military defense system of the Great Wall of the Jin Dynasty and further explores the applicability of the research paradigm. This paper has methodological innovation value for solving the problem of spatial cognition of settlement heritage. Full article

Spain is among the European countries with the greatest number of preserved castles and defensive structures—some estimates place the total at around 10,000, the majority of which date back to the medieval period. Yet, surprisingly, many of these fortifications remain uncatalogued and in an advanced state of ruin. This study focuses on a small fortress that has been overlooked by historiography and neglected by public authorities, yet which still stands after seven centuries: the Tower of Lopera, a castle belonging to the so-called Banda Morisca (the frontier of Al-Andalus in the 14th century). Using a combination of digital documentation techniques—namely, portable laser scanning, photogrammetry (via drone and camera), and digital image processing software—we have been able to digitize, geometrize, and document both the surviving architectural remains and their immediate physical environment. Rather than pursuing the latest technological innovations, this methodology prioritizes practical and realistic solutions based on the resources typically available to cultural heritage administrations. Our work serves two main objectives: to demonstrate the viability of applying such tools to this typology of architectural heritage and to conduct a detailed graphic and geometric analysis of the structure. Given the abundance of similar abandoned fortresses in Spain, the findings presented here could inform future heritage documentation strategies on a broader, potentially national, scale. Full article

As a cultural corridor connecting the Central Plains and Northeast China, the Liaoxi Corridor has a special position in the transmission of traditional Chinese culture. Traditional villages in the region have preserved rich intangible cultural heritage and traditional architectural features, which highlight the historical heritage of multicultural intermingling. This study fills the gap in the spatial distribution of traditional villages in the Liaoxi Corridor and reveals their spatial distribution pattern, which is of great theoretical significance. Using Geographic Information System (GIS) spatial analysis and quantitative geography, this study analyzes the spatial pattern of traditional villages and the influencing factors. The results show that traditional villages in the Liaoxi Corridor are clustered, forming high-density settlement areas in Chaoyang County and Beizhen City. Most villages are located in hilly and mountainous areas and river valleys and are affected by the natural geographic environment (topography and water sources) and historical and human factors (immigration and settlement, border defense, ethnic integration, etc.). In conclusion, this study provides a scientific basis and practical reference for rural revitalization, cultural heritage protection, and regional coordinated development, aiming at revealing the geographical and cultural mechanisms behind the spatial distribution of traditional villages. Full article

Scientific evaluation of architectural heritage value constitutes a crucial foundation for advancing effective conservation practices and guiding policy development. Fujian Tubao, a distinctive form of defensive vernacular architecture found in southeastern China, integrates military defense, residential functions, and clan-based social organization into a unified spatial structure, making it an important component of China’s regional cultural heritage. In response to current challenges of inadequate preservation and progressive loss of heritage value associated with Fujian Tubao, there is an urgent need to establish a systematic evaluation framework to support and inform conservation efforts. This study centered on Fujian Tubao and proposed a comprehensive value assessment system that could innovatively integrate Grounded Theory with the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The Grounded Theory was first adopted to extract value dimensions of architectural heritage and their underlying connotations, thereby forming a value cognition system. Subsequently, the AHP was applied to assign quantitative weights and establish the priority order of each dimension, ultimately constructing a value evaluation system that could identify core objects for heritage conservation and clarify the hierarchy of their relative importance. This study achieved methodological integration in both the value extraction and evaluation stages, overcoming limitations of a single-method approach in dimension identification and weight assignment. The framework ensures logical consistency in value structuring and enhances the scientific validity of results. This study formulated a standardized and replicable evaluation framework tailored to the heritage value of Fujian Tubao. It also provides theoretical support for future conservation planning and offers a methodological reference for value assessment across diverse categories of architectural heritage. Full article

Guomari fortress in eastern Qinghai Province exemplifies vernacular architecture shaped by multiethnic interaction, environmental adaptation, and localized defense strategies. Originally a Ming Dynasty military-agricultural outpost, it evolved into a Tu ethnic settlement. Fieldwork, including architectural surveys and spatial analysis, identified a three-tiered defensive system: (1) strategic use of terrain and rammed-earth walls; (2) labyrinthine alleys with L-, T-, and cross-shaped intersections; and (3) interconnected rooftops forming elevated circulation routes. Courtyards are categorized into single-line, L-shaped, U-shaped, and fully enclosed layouts, reflecting adaptations to terrain, ritual functions, and thermal needs. Architectural features such as thick loam-coated walls and flat roofs demonstrate climatic adaptation, while the integration of Han timber frameworks, Tibetan prayer halls, and Tu decorative elements reveals cultural convergence. Traditional craftsmanship, including carved wooden scripture blocks and tsampa-based murals, is embedded within domestic and ritual spaces. The fortress’s circulation patterns mirror Tibetan Buddhist cosmology, with mandala-like alleys and rooftop circumambulation routes. These findings offer insights into vernacular resilience and inform conservation strategies for multiethnic fortified settlements. Full article

This article examines the interplay of religion, nationalism, and identity in contemporary Sweden, focusing on the rising phenomenon of Christian nationalism. Our analysis of editorials and opinion pieces from major Swedish newspapers reveals a significant shift towards a more pronounced Christian influence in public discourse, suggesting a renegotiation of the sacred–secular divide. This shift highlights a growing intertwining of religious narratives with national identity, raising questions about whether Sweden should embrace its Christian heritage or maintain religious neutrality and plurality. Our findings indicate that expressions of individual faith emerging in cultural discussions are not merely personal; they also foster organized religion, contributing to the construction of new communal identities. This relocation of the sacred from the private to the public sphere signifies a renewed world-building potential for religion, particularly in urban settings, challenging classical secularization theories. The increasing prominence of Christian perspectives reflects discontent with “secularized Christianity-as-culture”, signaling a desire for a more foundational Christianity. Furthermore, the integration of spheres, where discourse on values and societal crises fosters a renewed demand for religion, leads to a need to reinforce a religious identity which results in a “cultural defense” that effectively supports Christian nationalism. Full article

The Great Wall of China, one of the nation’s most remarkable military defense structures, possesses a history spanning several millennia and is associated with numerous heritage sites. Today, it stands as a world-renowned cultural heritage asset. Vegetation growing on the ruins of the Great Wall can exert both detrimental and protective effects on the structure. Indiscriminate removal of such vegetation may lead to unintended damage to the heritage site. Drawing on the theory of “evaluative conservation”, this study integrates the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) and the Delphi method to develop a resistance assessment system for vegetation removal. A case study was conducted on 40 plant species or categories located along the Ming-era Guangwu section of the Great Wall, with spatial zoning analysis applied to inform removal strategies. The results reveal the structure, key factors, and classification criteria of the resistance evaluation system. Corresponding management recommendations are proposed, including strategies such as “preservation”, “partial preservation”, “removal”, and “subsequent removal and management”. This research provides a foundational reference for the conservation and restoration of the Great Wall heritage, and for the management of associated vegetation. Full article

During the Modern Age, Seville was known as the Port of the Indies due to its key role in transatlantic trade, although the actual port was located in Triana, a riverside quarter outside the city walls along the Guadalquivir River. This area was essential for maritime and commercial activities, shaping Seville’s economic and social development. This study analyses Triana’s urban layout, social composition, and architecture in the 16th century using historical sources and graphic representations. The quarter combined defensive structures, religious buildings, and residential complexes, reflecting both its strategic importance and distinct identity. Its streets and architecture supported defense, commerce, and daily life, while its diverse community (including sailors, merchants, craftsmen, and dockworkers) was central to its mercantile and manufacturing activity. Architecturally, Triana featured traditional dwellings, corrales de vecinos, mesones, and posadas, that facilitated trade and travel. Examining these elements reveals Triana’s adaptability to economic and social conditions, highlighting its resilience, diverse population, and rich architectural heritage within Seville’s historical context and Atlantic trade. Full article