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Platform or Tree? Reflections on the Mental Origins of Disregard for Understanding and Preserving the Heritage Built Environment in Iran
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Mehrdad Qayyoomi Bidhendi   |
| Co-founder Editor, Nowruzgan, |
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Abstract: (15 Views) |
In Iran, historical monuments are frequently threatened by uncontrolled development, environmental neglect, insufficient protection, or the misalignment of heritage preservation with economic needs. Urban and broader cityscapes suffer even greater neglect than individual architectural works. Architectural historiography has traditionally emphasized singular, often monumental urban buildings, while vernacular architecture and rural or urban environments are largely overlooked. These issues reflect managerial, economic, social, and cultural challenges, which are ultimately rooted in prevailing attitudes and perceptions among both the public and decision-makers. Sustainable reform in heritage management and research therefore requires understanding these underlying mindsets.
This study examines key cognitive challenges, particularly the agentical viewpoint of architecture and urbanism. To clarify this perspective, it shortly analyzes the main modes of emergence and growth of the built environment in premodern Iran, along with related concepts such as building culture and material and immaterial cultural practices. The study shows that historical architectural works—whether modest or monumental, vernacular or elite—represent cells of a once-thriving culture whose influence persists in collective memory and social identity. Preservation of these works is therefore essential not only for aesthetic or functional reasons, but also for maintaining cultural continuity and reinforcing communal identity.
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| Keywords: Heritage Built Environment of Iran, Vernacular Architecture, Architectural Historiography, Cultural Attitudes, Preservation |
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Full-Text [PDF 721 kb]
(15 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
Special
Received: 2025/12/1 | Accepted: 2025/12/4
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