Persian gardens and heritage-based urban design: Indigenous Knowledge of cultural and historical landscape for sustainable development of cities and settlements

Persian gardens and heritage-based urban design

Abstract

This article, offers valuable insights into the relationship between traditional landscape knowledge and contemporary sustainable development. In this regard, author utilized his observations and accumulated knowledge from years in this field that are clearly evident in the text. Persian garden, with its brilliant history as one of the best landscape models, is a result of the productive interaction of the Iranian man with nature. Persian garden is enclosed by a rectangular fence with vertical axes which are parallel to the sides of the fence. Plant, the earth and the water, and the architectural components are four elements forming the body of the garden. The Persian garden is both physical and spiritual experience. The aroma of succulent plants, the melody of water and birds, the smooth tiled texture and taste of wet earth and the sun, the fruits, the flowers and the colorful mosaics that are reflected in a calm catchment, are all outstanding. Considering the existing environmental potential as well as Iran's ancient history of gardening, it is hoped that environmental and landscape designers keep with the principles of sustainability in planning and designing. The rehabilitation of Persian gardens, along with respect for the principles of sustainability and consistent with sustainable urban planning, can play an important role in the development of urban green spaces and, consequently, sustainable urban development.