Architectural Sustainability in the Cultural Landscape of Maymand

Vernacular architecture, in terms of authenticity and adaptation to change, is a good case for the examination of necessary principles and characteristics for a durable and sustainable architecture. The purpose of this research is to identify the reasons behind the sustainability of architecture in a historical complex and its relevant criteria. Maymand’s cultural landscape, registered in the World Heritage List in 2015, was selected as a case study due to the existence of different settlements and architectural characteristics. In this research, during a four-year (1394-97) study, review of textual sources, in-depth interviews, and participatory observation were carried out to identify the architectural characteristics of the three settlements in Maymand, and finally, data was analyzed and sustainability criteria identified. The results of the research show that the architecture in Maymand is in full interaction with the characteristics of the landscape, and it is considered sustainable only when it reflects the lifestyle and activities in the cultural-natural context. The sustainability criteria in this research help realize this cultural significance.