The role of four key structures in the creation and survival of cultural landscapes in the desert environment of Iran

AbstractCultural landscapes in the desert environment of Iran were created according to specific climatic conditions and differ from those in other climates. Scarcity of water resources in these regions has led to the invention and application of unique measures for the supply, maintenance and use of water. The qanat, cistern, ice-house and wind catcher are ingenious measures that have had key roles in the settlement of man in desert regions of Iran and ideally addressed the specific needs of each community over centuries. This study illustrates the significance and relationship of these elements in the creation and survival of cultural landscapes in the desert environment of Iran. To this end, their features are discussed and analyze separately and as ensembles which in turn presents a sustainable way of living in desert regions.Keywords: cultural landscapedesert environmentqanatcisternice-housewind catcher Notes on contributorMaryam Rafiee Fanood, MSc graduated with a masters’ degree in conservation and the revitalization of historical buildings and sites from Iran University of Science and Technology in 2009. She subsequently joined the Erasmus Mundus postgraduate programme on the management of cultural landscapes. Numerous theoretical and practical training sessions in different parts of Europe and a successful internship at Heritage Malta in 2011 have enabled Maryam to develop her knowledge and skills in cultural heritage conservation. She is currently working as a cultural heritage researcher and consultant, participating in different conservation projects in Iran.Notes1. 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