Comparative analysis of the cultural landscape based on the comparison of expert perspectives, field evidence, and general approaches to artificial intelligence

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Ph.D. student in Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Imam Khomeini International University(IKIU), Qazvin, Iran.

2 Associate Professor, Department of Landscape Architecture, School of Architecture and Environmental design, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

Cultural Landscape, as a dynamic, multilayered, and flexible concept shaped by the dialectical interaction between humans and nature across time and space, encompasses tangible elements, intangible aspects, and perceptual dimensions. It holds a prominent position in architectural, urban planning, and cultural heritage studies. This research aims to redefine the identity of the cultural landscape and identify its key components through a mixed-method and interdisciplinary approach. The methodology includes a systematic literature review, historical-theoretical analysis, evaluation of general definitions provided by artificial intelligences (ChatGPT, Google Gemini, Microsoft Bing, DeepSeek, and Grok), and semi-structured interviews with experts.
The findings reveal the cultural landscape as an adaptive system reflecting the history, culture, and choices of communities, providing a platform for preserving biocultural diversity, reinforcing collective identity, and promoting sustainable development. Five key components were identified: 1) Human–nature interaction; 2) Historical dimensions; 3) Symbolic values; 4) Mental perceptions; and 5) Functional aspects. Human–nature interaction, as the central core, encompasses the other components as interconnected layers.
The proposed conceptual model visually organizes this structure and provides a coherent framework for interdisciplinary studies, architectural design, urban planning, and cultural heritage conservation. Practical recommendations include designing public spaces that preserve human–nature interactions and historical elements, enhancing mental experiences and collective identity through multilayered spaces, reinforcing symbolic values for social belonging, and functional planning for sustainable development. Future research directions focus on emerging technologies (AI for mental perception studies), local–global comparative studies, and sustainable conservation tools with community participation.
Ultimately, by integrating diverse data, this research presents the cultural landscape as a mirror of human–nature interactions and a dynamic platform for both world heritage and contemporary communities.

Highlights

  • This study redefines cultural landscape identity through a mixed-method approach combining literature review, AI analysis, and expert interviews
  • Five key components of cultural landscape were identified: human-nature interaction (17 occurrences), historical dimensions (12 occurrences), symbolic values (11 occurrences), mental perceptions (10 occurrences), and functional aspects (9 occurrences)
  • Human-nature interaction serves as the core axis encompassing other components as interconnected layers
  • Cultural landscape, as a mirror of human-nature interactions, serves as both world heritage and a dynamic platform for sustainable development and collective identity in contemporary societies. This research facilitates understanding this complex identity through a coherent conceptual model.

Keywords

References

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Iranian Urban Design Studies
Volume 2, Issue 2 - Serial Number 4
January 2026
Pages 131-152

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History

  • Receive Date: 06 June 2025
  • Revise Date: 23 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 09 August 2025
  • First Publish Date: 07 January 2026
  • Publish Date: 20 January 2026

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