The study of the principles and methods of architectural design in the protected context of Meymand Historic Village Cover Image

The study of the principles and methods of architectural design in the protected context of Meymand Historic Village
The study of the principles and methods of architectural design in the protected context of Meymand Historic Village

Author(s): Mohammad Reza Nasrolahi, Mastaneh Nejati Dolagh, Hanie Okhovat
Subject(s): Museology & Heritage Studies, Architecture
Published by: Univerzita Komenského v Bratislave, Filozofická fakulta
Keywords: Historic Village of Meymand; Protected Texture; Rocky Architecture; Iran;

Summary/Abstract: In the present study, we have tried to introduce and study the architecture of Meymand historic rocky village in Iran, its relationship with the surrounding nature, and its design constraints. The research is fundamental, descriptive, and analytical. Data collection methods include the use of books and published articles, field visits to Meymand village, and interviews with the villagers. Since Meymand village has been registered on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list, this paper seeks to study the rules and regulations set for this cultural heritage, the methods and constraints of construction in the region, as well as its core zone and triple zones, and the three different lifestyles of the dwellers. According to the previous studies, the application of the regulations prescribed by the Cultural Heritage Organization in Meymand has led to the creation of a preservative precinct in the village so that anything that would cause destruction or damage to the core zone (including damages to the visual features) is prohibited. The construction of new buildings and pathways in the core zone is prohibited, and permissible interventions are limited to restoration, revitalization, repair, change of use, change of interior spaces, and the removal of newly established and non-native buildings (to maintain the native look of the village). Everything must be done in such a way that it does not undermine the natural environment of the zone. It is imperative to preserve the historic monuments and cultural landscape within the core zone. The construction of new buildings is forbidden in zones 1 and 2, but infrastructure, welfare, and tourism services can be established, aiming to preserve the cultural, historical, and natural values of the region. Saraghol area in zone 3 is the only area where the construction of new buildings is allowed. In any case, any new construction should be in harmony with the surrounding environment. Therefore, the design should be indigenous and limited to the surface of the earth, and the height must not disturb the skyline of the area. Besides, to preserve the cultural landscape, the indigenous construction methods have priority over the modern ones.

  • Issue Year: 7/2019
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 123-142
  • Page Count: 20
  • Language: English