Spatial Analysis of Rural Landscapes: A Reflection of Identity Fragmentation in Land Use

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Ph. D Student of Geography and Rural Planning, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran

2 Associate Professor of Human Geography, Faculty of Geography, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Spatial analysis of rural landscapes plays a crucial role in understanding land use changes and their impact on rural identity. This study employs spatial statistical methods and ArcGIS Pro 2.5 to examine the distribution and transformation of rural landscapes in Tehran Province. The findings indicate that cultural landscapes (residential, commercial, industrial) are primarily concentrated in the western and southeastern regions of the province, whereas natural landscapes (agriculture, livestock, orchards) dominate the eastern and southeastern areas. This imbalanced pattern has led to significant changes in the identity, economy, and role of villages, increasing their dependency on urban centers. Comparing these results with global studies reveals that urbanization, industrial development, and reverse migration are among the most influential factors in rural landscape transformation. Additionally, the reduction of green spaces and orchards highlights the lack of effective conservation policies. Therefore, it is recommended that rural development policies focus on maintaining spatial balance, preventing disproportionate changes, and enhancing spatial sustainability. The results of this study contribute to a better understanding of rural landscape transformation processes and provide a foundation for optimal management of these areas.

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Main Subjects


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