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Periods of accelerated societal change in European history have disrupted gradual alteration in the landscape, creating breaks with the past. This has led to, what we refer to as, the contemporary landscape identity complex in the Netherlands. Composed of dissonant narratives surrounding the landscape that play out on the societal level, the contemporary landscape identity complex may create tensions that can obstruct conservation efforts. In this article, we map out this complex. Three narrative clusters, distilled from literature and supplemented by interviews, aid in understanding the tension regarding the future of the Dutch contemporary rural landscape, namely: 'the utilitarian narrative', 'the romantic narrative', and 'the eco-scientific narrative'. The contemporary landscape identity complex is fed by these narratives, specifically through how rural landscapes are imagined and discussed, as opposed to how they are lived and acted upon. The way such narratives play out in practice is further investigated through a case study on the 'Bommelerwaard', an area in the south-central of the Netherlands. From our results, we propose a pathway to reconcile the contemporary landscape identity complex towards a landscape conservation ethic that allows for a co-existence of a diversity of images and ideas about (semi-) natural landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide, wolf conservation has been driven by several rapid environmental changes and intense anthropogenic pressures. At the beginning of the 17th century wolves were commonly present in the Pisan hills especially in the upper hills, where killing regularly occurred. Severe reclamation, deforestation actions, human persecution, deep socio-economic and environmental changes occurred between the 17th and 20th century causing the local extinction of wolf in the Pisan hills by the Second World War. A process of wolf recolonization of the Pisan hills started from the second half of the 20th century due to a gradual restoration of the natural environment. In this context, changes of socio-economic and cultural conditions, the technological development, and the mitigation of human's attitudes toward wolf may be a base for the development of new approaches able to promote humans-wolf coexistence and balance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Digital agriculture (DA) is considered a new farming revolution that has various benefits and is being promoted in policymaking. This raises the question of whether the current digital revolution in agriculture will cause landscape change, as technology has always been an important driving force behind this change. Existing research has mainly focused on the socio-economic and environmental impacts of DA, rather than its impact on the landscape. This article investigates if and how the nexus between landscape and DA is addressed in scientific journals through a systematic literature review. The review concludes that DA does influence all landscape dimensions at multiple scales. However, due to the limited evidence-based research on this issue, we propose two hypothetical scenarios to help planners and policymakers to better understand the plausible consequences of digitalisation and, give some suggestions to scholars to further develop research on this issue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Portugal's architecture reflects a rich history influenced by Roman, Moorish, Neoclassical and Romantic styles, with the 20th century marked by Art Deco and colonial influences. Regional styles vary, with white-painted buildings commonly experiencing color changes due to biofilm formation. Visually striking are the red-colored biological patinascommon in the coastal areas. A survey of 120 historical buildings affected by bio-colonization helps to understand the reasons for the patinas' growing, which beyond natural factors, is often linked to construction defects. A characterization of four samples utilizes Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to identify the microorganisms composing the red biofilm, while the SEM-EDS, FTIR-ATR and XRD techniques provide further insights into the biofilm and substrate features. The comprehensive data of biochemical characterization indicate a wide variety of microorganisms, including bacteria and fungi, some of which exhibit potential as producers of a UV-tolerant red/yellow pigment (carotenoid) responsible for the macroscopic coloration of bio-colonization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study addresses the construction of high-quality rural landscapes, crucial for China's rural revitalization strategy, encompassing economic, social, cultural, and ecological dimensions. Focusing on 66 cold-region villages in Heilongjiang Province, it develops a dual-dimensional quality evaluation system that integrates both objective data and subjective perception indicators. It employs the entropy weight TOPSIS model to evaluate and grade the quality of rural landscapes and uses fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) to analyze the complex causal relationships influencing high-quality rural landscapes. The results show that (1) The TOPSIS model identifies four grades of rural landscape quality: "Excellent-Good-Average-Poor", with "Excellent and Good" grades defined as high-quality rural landscape. (2) The fsQCA reveals eight configuration paths that influence high-quality rural landscapes, which are categorized into four models: natural ecology, efficient industry, cultural heritage, and comprehensive development. The main contribution of this study lies in its systematic analysis of the complex causal relationships affecting rural landscape quality, providing a theoretical and technological foundation for guiding the sustainable development of cold-region rural landscapes within the framework of rural revitalization strategy in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many species can achieve high population densities in habitats with plentiful resources. Such habitats are interesting from ecological, behavioral, and conservational perspectives. In this study, we assessed the population density of the avian predator, the Little Owl (Athene noctua) in traditional human settlements surrounded by natural grasslands in the Hortobágy region (eastern Hungary). Recorded population densities were much higher than those previously described for this species in other surveyed areas of comparable size. With a total of 176 calling males counted on 6.58 km2, population density in the three towns we surveyed (33.3, 29.4, and 22.5 calling males/km2) exceeded 2–3 times the population densities reported from southern European areas with high Little Owl population densities. Moreover, these population densities were the highest reported for any owl species in Europe. In review of population densities reported for other species of owls across the world, we note the prominent role of the Athene genus (A. cunicularia, A. brama, and A. noctua in particular), whose population densities are matched only by some tropical forest owl species. Although Little Owls have suffered drastic population declines due to agricultural intensification in many areas across central and western Europe, some traditional human settlements still seem to provide high-quality breeding and foraging habitats; Little Owls represent an example of wildlife species thriving in some urban environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aims to determine the rural gentrification process in Yunt Mountain, which is located in a between İzmir and Manisa provinces and is an important geographical value with its physical and human geography elements. Within the scope of the study, the phenomenon of gentrification was examined by revealing the change in the rural landscape in the case of 11 villages on Yunt Mountain. In the study, where fieldwork was used as the main research method, field surveys were carried out in various periods between 2019 and 2024. The data obtained were transferred to the map with ArcGis 10.8.1 software and the study was visualised with a rich photo archive. After the study, it was determined that the land and housing prices in the neighbourhoods taken as a sample have risen to a level to compete with the city centre, the newly built houses are built with additions that are not suitable for the structure of the rural area and there are visible problems in land use. It is concluded that this situation, even if not in a total manner in the field, especially in some villages (Bağyurdu, Gülbahçe, Üçpınar), the process of gentrification has progressed rapidly

With the booming development of rural tourism, the users of rural environments are gradually becoming more diverse. Both tourists and villagers are the main appreciators of rural landscapes, but the cognitive similarities and differences in rural landscape between the two have not yet been explored. Therefore, taking Wangshang Village, located in Shaanxi Province, China as a case study, this research used a combination of quantitative analysis (eye-tracking technology) and qualitative analysis (semi-structured interviews) to compare and analyze the cognitive similarities and differences of rural landscapes between tourists and villagers. The experimental results showed that the cognitive similarities and differences in rural landscapes between tourists and villagers are mainly reflected in their level of cognition, observation methods, and key elements of focus. The reasons for cognitive differences are due to the different living backgrounds of the two groups of subjects, as well as their varying levels of familiarity, novelty, and personal needs towards rural landscapes. In conclusion, studying the cognitive differences between the two groups of participants, tourists and villagers, can help address the homogenization problem faced by rural landscapes. Meanwhile, the results of this study also provide theoretical guidance and methodological support for rural landscape design. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rural tourism strategies in underdeveloped countries have gained significant popularity in recent years. However, the repetitive and irrational construction of tourist destinations contributes to the homogeneity of the tourism environment. Low quality in the rural landscape and tourism services could affect the attraction of tourist spots. Collaboration between rural areas and service-based tourism is essential for the development of tourist-oriented villages. This review paper aims to thoroughly analyze the relationship between rural landscapes and tourism services within tourist-oriented villages in China. It further explores how the synergistic development of these two sectors can enhance rural tourism and addresses the sustainability challenges these villages face. After analyzing the data by integrated review, it is evident that the “wisdom product” concept, which integrates a high-quality rural landscape with tourism services through cultural branding, can improve the attractiveness of tourist-oriented villages and achieve sustainable growth. By grasping this concept, rural areas can experience a revival, enabling local governments, villagers, and tourism service providers to actively participate in the long-term planning, management, and development of tourist-oriented villages, crucial for the enduring success of rural tourism initiatives in China. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional Chinese villages, recognized as national heritage sites, are invaluable cultural assets. Since 2012, efforts have focused on their preservation, though issues remain such as prioritizing authenticity over usability and material over cultural elements. This paper adopts the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) approach, emphasizing the integration of physical heritage with daily life to shift value assessment. The fundamental argument of this paper is that the HUL method can serve as a new tool for preserving the historical heritage and landscape of rural areas, particularly in the context of assessing and formulating preservation frameworks for traditional Chinese villages. Through the case study of Tangfang village's new conservation plan, the research demonstrates that the value of traditional villages lies in the continuous interaction between daily activities and physical space, including landscape, functional, and spiritual dimensions. The study concludes that a preservation framework based on local residents' daily lives ensures more effective heritage conservation and landscape preservation by addressing both material and human values. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As the cultural heritage of a country, the texture of vernacular villages is the main factor that forms the vernacular landscape. These textures provide visual values that play a determinant role in presence and residence continuity in rural areas. However, many vernacular landscapes of foothill villages in Iran have become problematic due to interferences and a lack of proper management mechanisms. It is essential to formulate a theoretical framework for parameters affecting the vernacular landscape protection to handle the development process and preserve this precious heritage. This is an exploratory study in terms of nature and is descriptive-survey research in terms of data collecting method. The statistical population comprises 31 experts in architectural and rural fields who were interviewed through a non-random network method. The techniques used in this study include content analysis, Delphi, and correlation, and the collected data are analyzed using SPSS software through Q factor analysis, Pearson correlation, and regression analysis. The results show that 9 factors can be extracted based on the priorities and mental patterns of the experts for visual organization: adaptability, coordination and orderliness, visibility, comfort, permeability, compatibility, legibility, attractiveness, and landscape. Among the mentioned factors, the higher explained variance percentage (14.097%) belongs to adaptability. According to the obtained results, 99.4% of variations in the vernacular landscape have been explained by these 9 factors among which, visual attractiveness and visibility have the highest effect on vernacular landscape protection in foothill villages with impact coefficients of 0.318 and 0.279, respectively at the significance level of 99%.

Tourism is a communication system that, unlike other communication systems, not only transfers the message but the entire communication system with all its human and cultural characteristics, and the debate on the greater importance of the message or the tool, which is one of the fundamental debates in communication studies, becomes meaningless in tourism. In this system, the human being is the center of communication, and the communication is face-to-face and has simultaneous feedback. Comparative studies between the concept of media and the concept of tourism explain this issue. Now, McLuhan’s theory on the thermal division of media into two spectra of hot and cool can also be applied to the field of tourism studies.This study attempts to develop the concept of hot and cool tourism, hot and cool tourists, and hot and cool destinations. It argues that development in the realm of language and concepts can lead to development in the real world and the lived experiences of individuals and communities.Is McLuhan’s philosophical view of media, which classifies it into two groups of cool and hot, applicable to the field of tourism? What are the characteristics of cool and hot destinations? And what do hot and cool behaviors mean to tourists?Hot tourism is a purposeful journey in a harmonious and value-added system, without voluminous information, numerous visits, and tiring comings and goings. On the other side of the cool tourism spectrum, is characterized by a plethora of information and costly and unproductive visits that exhaust and depress the tourists. Despite the criticisms of this conceptualization, some of which are mentioned in the article, this generalization can be effective in managing individual and social tourism.

This article describes an educational path, and subsequent experimentation, for a local cultural and natural heritage didactic unit, focusing on understanding the concepts of heritage, landscape and life in a specific mountain area. The unit, aimed at secondary school children, presents its pedagogical purpose through different methods including worksheets, glossaries, guides, and activity booklets. This study of local heritage focuses on education in relation to the specific field of heritage. Problems currently affecting the region – abandonment, depopulation, and the progressive loss of knowledge and of cultural assets of the past – are central to this didactic unit, which seeks to enhance cultural awareness of local heritage. Several pedagogical techniques incorporating different graphical and textual options are implemented to characterize the setting. The analysis explains the characteristics of the unit and its results in the form of intellectual output. It promotes progressive learning based on the recognition of natural and cultural characteristics of the rural landscape while also developing transversal skills such as innovation, social and cognitive values, and awareness of sensibility and sustainability. This pedagogical tool, which is based on a joint objective and subjective approach exercised both by investigators and the local population, aims above all to encourage the interest of children and of individuals with closer ties to the territory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ceratonia siliqua L. belonging to the Leguminosae (Fabaceae) family, has been cultivated for millennia and is recognized as a valuable botanical resource. However, global production of this tree is rapidly declining. This paper aims to examine the primary uses of carob trees and highlight their value in the landscape by developing a systematic review of Scopus documents from 1980 to 2023. The resulting 2130 documents revealed that the main studied uses of carob trees are in human medicine and food. Additionally, 3.85% of these documents studied the landscape value of carob trees, emphasizing their role in improving landscape resilience, preserving rural identities, and fostering the development of geo-specific strategies for slow tourism. This systematic review underscores the multifaceted importance of Ceratonia siliqua L. in both cultural and environmental contexts, advocating for its preservation and sustainable use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Agricultural heritage systems are receiving increasing attention due to their multifunctional role, their capability to provide ecosystem services, and for representing sustainable development models for rural areas. At the international level, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations launched in 2002 the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) Program to identify and safeguard traditional agro-silvo-pastoral systems that are the result of the adaptation of rural communities to the surrounding environments. Following this approach, similar national programs have been developed, among which the Italian National Register of Historical Rural Landscapes and the China Nationally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (China-NIAHS) initiative stand out. This research compares the China-NIAHS initiative and the Italian Register of Historical Rural Landscapes, highlighting similarities and differences and identifying strengths and weaknesses, to contribute to the development of proper tools for the conservation and valorization of agricultural heritage systems. Both initiatives were established in 2012 and share similar aims and inscription criteria, including historical and current significance, knowledge system and social structure, economic and productive framework, and causes of vulnerability. The main differences are related to the delimitation of the boundaries of the proposed sites and to the inscription process; in addition, while for the Italian National Register spatial analyses of land-use changes and landscape structure are mandatory according to a precise methodology, for the China-NIAHS no specific landscape analyses are required. The main critical issues are the lack of public participation and the lack of a monitoring plan after the inscription. The absence of monitoring is also the main vulnerability of the FAO GIAHS Programme. This research can offer important information for different stakeholders at the international, national, and local levels dealing with agricultural heritage conservation and valorization. In particular, it highlights the need of developing a multidisciplinary monitoring system with a standard methodology based on different indicators that can contribute to maximizing the impact of these initiatives. This research also provides useful information for the countries that are interested in developing a national initiative for agricultural heritage systems' identification and valorization/conservation or for countries that intend to improve their national programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rural landscapes are acknowledged for their potential to restore human health due to natural characteristics. However, modern rural development has degraded these environments, thereby diminishing the restorative potential of rural landscapes. Few studies have systematically analyzed the impact of naturalness, landscape types, and landscape elements on restorativeness using both subjective and objective measurements. This study investigated the restorative effects of various rural landscapes in Guangzhou, employing electroencephalography and eye-tracking technologies to record physiological responses and using the Restorative Components Scale and the Perceived Restorativeness and Naturalness Scale to evaluate psychological responses. The results indicated the following: (1) There was a significant positive correlation between perceived naturalness and restorativeness, surpassing the impact of actual naturalness. (2) Different landscape types had varying impacts on restorativeness at the same level of perceived naturalness. Natural forest landscapes, artificial forest landscapes, and settlement landscapes exhibited the most substantial restorative effects among the natural, semi-natural, and artificial landscapes examined, respectively. (3) Restorative properties varied across landscape elements: trees and water significantly enhanced restorativeness, whereas constructed elements reduced it. Findings from this study can provide support for policymakers to make informed decisions regarding the selection and arrangement of rural landscape types and elements to enhance mental health and well-being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the increased demand for agricultural products, the agricultural industry has become intensified, resulting in a homogenization of the rural landscape. Our study defines rural landscape types at three scales (national, regional, and local) using a multi-scale method. We generated three landscape element datasets using literature and gray statistical analysis. Subsequently, we used the overlay approach and two-step cluster analysis to identify landscape regions, types, and subtypes. The findings indicate the presence of 47 landscape regions at the national scale, 448 landscape types at the regional scale, and 44 landscape subtypes at the local scale with Dahongshan Mountain Region serving as the empirical study site. Furthermore, we have developed a novel method to evaluate landscape diversity index (LDI) which utilizes the proportion of land area occupied by landscape elements in various landscape types. This method incorporates diverse elements, such as topography, landform, land cover/use, vegetation, and agroforestry industries. To examine the role of LDI in landscape planning, we analyzed the relationship between LDI and recreation services using the geographically weighted regression model. The result facilitates landscape planning and management at different administrative levels.Article Highlights: Definition of landscape regions, types, and subtypes at multiple scales through overlay method and two-step cluster analysis method. An assessment approach of landscape diversity was carried out using data from the agricultural and forestry industries, topography and landform, land cover and use, and other elements. The GWR regression model of LDI and RS provides a potential use of LDI. This broadly applicable strategy and its results enable landscape monitoring and policy implementation at all scales, from the national to the regional to the local. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research presents a methodology for assessing the landscape identity of rural settlements. The methodology evaluates landscape identity parameters as descriptive units and analyses landscape identity according to natural, built, socioeconomic, and sociocultural parameters at various scales. Turkey’s Aegean Region was selected as a case study for the research because of its rich rural pattern created by the combination of diverse geomorphology, a unique rural architectural character, climatic conditions, the rural economy, and sociocultural structures. The research presents several findings related to physical landscape identity. In addition, it shows important aspects of rural settlements through the lens of landscape identity and highlights the importance of identity-based approaches for sustainable rural development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of Features and Characteristics of Mountainous Rural Settlements (RFCMRS) is a key factor in the development of rural settlements during the urbanization process. Mountainous rural settlements, due to their unique mountainous conditions, climate, living environments, and regional culture, are among the important subjects of research for governments and the academic community worldwide. This paper, utilizing the knowledge mapping software CiteSpace (6.2.R3) for co-citation and collaboration analysis, keyword clustering, keyword time zoning, and keyword emergence, analyzes the research trajectory, key issues, and future trends of RFCMRSs. The study finds that current RFCMRS research can be categorized into the following three key issues: "implications of climate change: risks and adaptive responses", "regional cultural heritage and economic development", and "ecological conservation and fostering harmonious symbiosis". Future research will focus on the following three development trends: "risk response based on climate resilience and ecological protection", "factors of features and characteristics based on regional culture and landscape configurations", and "human settlements based on low-carbon objectives and sustainable development principles". Lastly, the paper proposes the following three future research suggestions: "improving the evaluation system for features and characteristics of mountainous rural settlements", "deepening the study on the evolutionary phenomenon and mechanism for features and characteristics of mountainous rural settlements", and "exploring the design methods for features and characteristics of mountainous rural settlements based on the concept of sustainable development". [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rural tourism, as one of the fundamental elements of development, contributes to the economic, social, cultural, and environmental capabilities of rural areas, and by utilizing its countless potentials, it significantly aids in the sustainable development of rural regions. However, in rural development programs and plans, tourism is often either overlooked or, if considered, solely focused on increasing the number of tourists without taking into account the spatial, historical, social, and geographical characteristics of the villages. This has resulted in existing development initiatives not only failing to significantly increase the number of tourists in rural areas but also causing serious damage to the natural landscape and socio-historical fabric of the villages. This research aims to examine rural tourism from an epistemological perspective and explore its dimensions of development. How can a place-based approach be utilized to optimize the potential of rural tourism, capitalize on available opportunities, and achieve sustainable rural tourism development? The research methodology employed is primarily exploratory, with some library-based components. The findings indicate that adopting a holistic and integrated approach to tourism development, considering the local characteristics of each village, can reduce the negative impacts of fragmentation and compartmentalization. Additionally, an epistemological approach to tourism can contribute to strengthening rural tourism, not only through physical interventions but also by leveraging the cultural, social, and identity capacities of each village. Operational strategies, including the preservation of ecological and natural landmarks, revitalization of local qualities, updating livelihood practices, and establishing local cooperation networks, contribute to improving tourism development and enhancing the spatial capacities of rural areas.

Rural living space was the place where rural residents live in daily life. The scenic beauty evaluation of rural living space was of great significance for protecting the traditional rural fabric and planning and designing a reasonable and beautiful living environment. Taking Ni-yuan village, Zi-shan village, Mo-shi-tang village and Chen-you-fang village as the research objects, 40 selected rural living space landscape samples were evaluated with SBE (scenic beauty evaluation) method, the factors affecting the scenic beauty were analyzed, and the strategy of rural landscape planning and design was discussed. The results showed that: The average SBE value of the four villages was Zi-shan village > Ni-yuan village > Chen-you-fang village > Mo-shi-tang village. The evaluators were generally satisfied with the rural living space. Regression analysis showed that the SBE value of rural living space was mainly affected by environmental cleanliness, rural cultural characteristics and landscape material ecology. The key points to be considered in the planning and design of rural living space were the protection of the original rural texture and vegetation, local materials, appropriate public activity space and rural residents' participation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rural landscapes serve as important platforms to determine the landscape characteristics (LCs) of rural areas, demonstrating the landscape characteristics specific to certain regions to the public. However, the development trend of urban and rural areas is continuous and impacts the characteristics of rural landscapes, which directly affects the public's visual experience and landscape perception. In order to improve the characteristics of rural landscapes, this study evaluates and analyzes their visual quality based on public preferences and eye movement heat maps. The results show that most subjects have a high preference for horizontal, open-view rural landscapes with fields and landform features as the dominant landscape elements. This study also found that the combination of strip-like or planar settlement buildings with regional characteristics and landform features has an active impact on the visual quality of rural landscapes. These results show that rural landscapes characterized by scattered settlement buildings without significant regional characteristics, horizontally curved roads, bridges, and other human-made landscape elements, and mixed and disorderly vegetation have low landscape preference, which degrades their visual quality. These research results provide crucial suggestions for landscape managers to protect and renew rural landscape features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to reconstruct the Albanian rural landscape through qualitative, diachronic, and multisource interpretations from the mid-19th century until 2022. For the first time, the data suitable for studying and describing landscape changes have been outlined to understand them over time, combining literature, historical maps, paintings, photo collections, movies, land art, and statistical dataset interpretations. By describing the changes in the Albanian landscape and interpretation of agricultural statistics, the research has confirmed the land-use dynamicity of its rural landscape. These considerations call for a more contemporary approach to landscape planning, stressing the need for the State Party to sign the Council of Europe Landscape Convention. In addition, strategies and actions should valorise both the ordinary landscape and the community involvement in its proactive management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Woody plants in roadside green spaces of rural settlements provide a wide range of ecosystem functions and services. The study presented in this paper was conducted in three rural settlements in Western Slovakia, representing three different rural landscape types—lowland, basin, and mountainous landscapes. The assessed woody vegetation is situated in diverse settlement structures, with various spatial patterns. A comprehensive woody plant assessment was conducted in selected central streetscapes of three model settlements, examining spatial, compositional, visual, aesthetic, and other values, as well as the characteristics of woody plants. These attributes were clustered according to five main functions and fourteen value parameters and the results were assigned to three quality categories, to objectivise a qualitative woody plant assessment in roadside vegetation structures in the countryside. The findings show the level of suitability of woody plants based on how they fulfil aesthetic, compositional, climate, safety, cultural, and historical functions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A large part of spatial planning projects in Polish rural communes deals with landscape issues such as protection and planning. Besides legal regulations extended public consultations (EPCs) on spatial planning processes provide an opportunity to comprehensively address and negotiate landscape arguments. This research aims to identify the understanding and value of the concept of landscape by local communities in the examined EPC cases. This paper explores landscape issues through a systematic analysis (multiple-case study) of six cases of EPCs carried out in Poland between 2019 and 2022. The landscape was negotiated in terms of its various functions to provide value for aesthetics, culture, history, identity, recreation, and economy. In some cases, the landscape was used as an argument to promote a hidden agenda. In the rural communes, aesthetic functions of landscapes were frequently addressed, while natural, ecological, and climatic functions of the landscape were barely mentioned, suggesting that the understanding of landscape remains at a representative, cultural, and visual level, which differs from urban discourses that often focus on climatic and ecological functions of landscape. EPCs are a sound instrument to further integrate landscape as a common asset into spatial planning processes.

This research examines the evolution of olive landscapes in Cartoceto, Italy, post-World War II. This study investigates the structural and functional attributes of two distinct olive cultivation models, mixed olive groves with a low tree density and high-density olive groves. The research employs remote sensing aerial imagery and land use cartography to reconstruct the past terrain and classify distinct categories of olive orchards. Landscape metrics are utilised to evaluate the impact of human and natural factors on the temporal development of olive landscapes across multiple spatial configurations, defined as Landscape-scale and sub-units or Landscape Units. The results indicate that olive landscapes have experienced noteworthy alterations, characterised by a reduction in the conventional large-scale system and an increase in specialised planting models of smaller sizes, classified as “high intensity”. The region surrounding Cartoceto's historic centre has conserved a greater variety of mixed olive heritage and has witnessed the emergence of novel high densities of trees compared to other areas. Obtaining these results has been facilitated solely by utilising diverse spatial configurations of smaller sub-units than the entire landscape. The outcomes of this investigation provide a foundation for forthcoming enquiries into olive terrains and the development of sustainable rural landscape strategies.

Mountain cultural landscapes of southern Europe have been affected during the 20th century by significant land use changes, due to depopulation and abandonment of traditional agro-silvo-pastoral practices. In addition, the cessation of traditional forest management led to a homogenization of forest structures and to the loss of habitats. Italy is one of the European countries most affected by the consequences of depopulation of mountain areas. Moscheta is located in the Italian Apennines, in Tuscany, and its economy has been based for centuries on forests (for timber, firewood, charcoal, and chestnuts to produce flour) and livestock. The aim of the paper is to analyze the land use changes occurred in a typical forest mountain landscape of southern Europe in the last 191 years, and to describe the characteristics and the results of the Forest Landscape Restoration project recently implemented. The methodology is based on GIS-based spatial analyses comparing the landscape of 1832, 2013 and 2023. In the period 1832–2013, 45% of the total surface was affected by forestation (average rate of 1.9 ha/year) mainly due to the abandonment of pastures and wooded pastures, but also to direct conifer afforestation. Chestnut groves were abandoned as they were no more economically interesting. From the 2010s, a Forest Landscape Restoration (FLR) project was implemented considering the economical, technical and future management feasibility. It focused on recovering the monumental chestnut groves and the wooded pastures, but also on interventions to increase the touristic attractiveness (paths management, Historical Landscape Museum creation, traditional buildings for chestnut drying restoration). The area was also inscribed in 2016 in the National list of Historical Rural Landscape established by the Italian Ministry of Agriculture. The analyses of the 2013–2023 landscape changes demonstrated that 4 ha of historical chestnut groves and 6.5 ha of wooded pastures have been recently restored, bringing their total surface to 17 ha and to 67 ha, respectively. In addition, results demonstrate that forestation completely stopped in the last 10 years. Other interventions are planned for the future: maintenance of chestnut groves, rehabilitation of other wooded pastures, re-introduction of the traditional practice of pollarding on ten beech trees. This study represents the first assessment of the FLR carried out in Moscheta, and demonstrates that the restoration of open spaces and of cultural forests is possible and could have a big impact on mountain cultural landscapes, contributing to the preservation and enhancement of ecosystem services and of touristic attractiveness, with potential direct benefits on the local economy.

In the continental Mediterranean mountains of the Iberian Peninsula is located a landscape characterized by the presence of enclosed land parcels delimited by dry stone walls or vegetation, or by both these elements. This landscape has been included, since 2018, in UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity under the name of Art of dry stone walling, knowledge and techniques. However, today’s territorial dynamics jeopardize the maintenance of this landscape heritage. This work set out to understand their origins, dynamics, and evolution from the 11th century (Middle Ages) to the present using historical documentation from different sources and diachronic cartography from aerial photographs. The fieldwork was designed to identify natural, cultural features and recent dynamics, in particular those related to urbanization changes of the last 70 years. Finally, we delved into the new dynamics of exploitation that were based on extensification and a loss of productive diversity. The results obtained lead us to consider that the loss of this agro-landscape must be prevented, with a reasonable livestock grazing criteria and a rational management of its heritage features. This requires regional, national, and European policies that recognize the enclosed landscape as a heritage ecosystem in which biodiversity and agriculture are closely linked.

Traditional Chinese villages, recognized as national heritage sites, are invaluable cultural assets. Since 2012, efforts have focused on their preservation, though issues remain such as prioritizing authenticity over usability and material over cultural elements. This paper adopts the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) approach, emphasizing the integration of physical heritage with daily life to shift value assessment. The fundamental argument of this paper is that the HUL method can serve as a new tool for preserving the historical heritage and landscape of rural areas, particularly in the context of assessing and formulating preservation frameworks for traditional Chinese villages. Through the case study of Tangfang village’s new conservation plan, the research demonstrates that the value of traditional villages lies in the continuous interaction between daily activities and physical space, including landscape, functional, and spiritual dimensions. The study concludes that a preservation framework based on local residents’ daily lives ensures more effective heritage conservation and landscape preservation by addressing both material and human values.

With the booming development of rural tourism, the users of rural environments are gradually becoming more diverse. Both tourists and villagers are the main appreciators of rural landscapes, but the cognitive similarities and differences in rural landscape between the two have not yet been explored. Therefore, taking Wangshang Village, located in Shaanxi Province, China as a case study, this research used a combination of quantitative analysis (eye-tracking technology) and qualitative analysis (semi-structured interviews) to compare and analyze the cognitive similarities and differences of rural landscapes between tourists and villagers. The experimental results showed that the cognitive similarities and differences in rural landscapes between tourists and villagers are mainly reflected in their level of cognition, observation methods, and key elements of focus. The reasons for cognitive differences are due to the different living backgrounds of the two groups of subjects, as well as their varying levels of familiarity, novelty, and personal needs towards rural landscapes. In conclusion, studying the cognitive differences between the two groups of participants, tourists and villagers, can help address the homogenization problem faced by rural landscapes. Meanwhile, the results of this study also provide theoretical guidance and methodological support for rural landscape design.

The paper discusses Radu Muntean 2021 film, Întregalde focusing on the representation of rural landscapes and the encounter between different social classes. The film marks multiple displacements within the director’s oeuvre, epitomized as “the chronicler” of the middle class in contemporary Romanian cinema. The spatial displacement from middle class urban spaces towards mountain and rural areas and the shift from the distant picturesqueness of landscape to the experience of landscape as dwelling, as inhabited and sensed environment mediated through textural images enables unsettling embodied, affective encounters both with the natural environment and between different social classes. In this way, the film addresses the question of class differences and lays bare the socio-economic inequalities between the urban middle class and the countryside without reducing rural characters to clichéd figurants in a picturesque or sombre countryside decorum. The film’s critical reflection on a form of occasional humanitarian aid and middle class philanthropy does not relativize the concept of charity, altruism and help but rather points to the growing gap of social inequalities (and the crisis of care) in the context of contemporary capitalism.1

In the continental Mediterranean mountains of the Iberian Peninsula is located a landscape characterized by the presence of enclosed land parcels delimited by dry stone walls or vegetation, or by both these elements. This landscape has been included, since 2018, in UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity under the name of Art of dry stone walling, knowledge and techniques. However, today's territorial dynamics jeopardize the maintenance of this landscape heritage. This work set out to understand their origins, dynamics, and evolution from the 11th century (Middle Ages) to the present using historical documentation from different sources and diachronic cartography from aerial photographs. The fieldwork was designed to identify natural, cultural features and recent dynamics, in particular those related to urbanization changes of the last 70 years. Finally, we delved into the new dynamics of exploitation that were based on extensification and a loss of productive diversity. The results obtained lead us to consider that the loss of this agro-landscape must be prevented, with a reasonable livestock grazing criteria and a rational management of its heritage features. This requires regional, national, and European policies that recognize the enclosed landscape as a heritage ecosystem in which biodiversity and agriculture are closely linked. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The China Desertification Ecological Restoration Project has effectively curbed the problem of soil desertification in Northwest China, and improved the ecological environment and landscape pattern of the Dunhuang Desertification Control Area. As the birthplace of Dunhuang culture, the ecological landscape of Yueyaquan Village shows strong sensitivity to disturbances, and in order to improve the ecological landscape resilience, an ecological landscape resilience evaluation system for desertification control villages was constructed from three levels: ecosystem, engineering system, and cultural traditions, and the results show that: (1) villages in the context of desertification control are difficult to resist the damages brought by natural disasters, and therefore the ability to resist determines the key factor of the ecological landscape resilience of villages. resilience level. (2) Through the empirical analysis of the ecological landscape system, engineering system and cultural system of Yueyaquan Village, it is found that the engineering system of the village has high resilience, the ecosystem resilience is average, and the resilience of the cultural system is weak, which reduces ecosystem resilience. The research results can guide subsequent improvement strategies for ecological landscape construction and provide new thoughts and ideas for rural environmental renovation and resilience enhancement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper we introduce an advance on some preliminary reflections that configure the identity of the Roman Asturian population, that occupied the villae of the transmontane Asturian territory during the Late Roman Empire. Through the study of the classical sources, that allude to this people in the Northwest of the Iberian Peninsula, we combine the results together with the spatial analysis of the territory and the mapping of the rural villae (that were distributed throughout this territory). With all of that, we interpret some guidelines that identified the character and personality of the first Asturian Romans. The territory of Asturias was conquered by Rome after the Cantabrian Wars during 29-19 B.C. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the context of flood risk management, the application of spatial planning is challenging. This article specifies the position of spatial planning in the context of flood risk management in Slovakia. Through a case study, it assesses the potential of municipal spatial plans to reduce flood risk in rural landscapes. The analysis of municipal spatial plans includes the following aspects: the legislative framework, the actionability of spatial plans and the competences of municipalities. The results showed that in terms of key aspects of flood risk management in the rural landscape, i.e. reducing flood risk through the application of eco-stabilisation measures and reducing the negative consequences of floods through the functional and spatial arrangement of the rural landscape, spatial plans have the status of a formal document. There are several reasons for this. The first one is centralised governance of flood risk. The second reason is the flood risk policy where protection by the technical infrastructure is dominant. The third reason is inconsistent use of municipal powers to reduce flood risk based on a spatial plan. The expectation that the municipalities’ spatial plans could contribute to effective flood risk management in the rural landscape thus remains a challenge.

Agricultural heritage systems are receiving increasing attention due to their multifunctional role, their capability to provide ecosystem services, and for representing sustainable development models for rural areas. At the international level, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations launched in 2002 the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) Program to identify and safeguard traditional agro-silvo-pastoral systems that are the result of the adaptation of rural communities to the surrounding environments. Following this approach, similar national programs have been developed, among which the Italian National Register of Historical Rural Landscapes and the China Nationally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (China-NIAHS) initiative stand out. This research compares the China-NIAHS initiative and the Italian Register of Historical Rural Landscapes, highlighting similarities and differences and identifying strengths and weaknesses, to contribute to the development of proper tools for the conservation and valorization of agricultural heritage systems. Both initiatives were established in 2012 and share similar aims and inscription criteria, including historical and current significance, knowledge system and social structure, economic and productive framework, and causes of vulnerability. The main differences are related to the delimitation of the boundaries of the proposed sites and to the inscription process; in addition, while for the Italian National Register spatial analyses of land-use changes and landscape structure are mandatory according to a precise methodology, for the China-NIAHS no specific landscape analyses are required. The main critical issues are the lack of public participation and the lack of a monitoring plan after the inscription. The absence of monitoring is also the main vulnerability of the FAO GIAHS Programme. This research can offer important information for different stakeholders at the international, national, and local levels dealing with agricultural heritage conservation and valorization. In particular, it highlights the need of developing a multidisciplinary monitoring system with a standard methodology based on different indicators that can contribute to maximizing the impact of these initiatives. This research also provides useful information for the countries that are interested in developing a national initiative for agricultural heritage systems’ identification and valorization/conservation or for countries that intend to improve their national programs.

This research presents a methodology for assessing the landscape identity of rural settlements. The methodology evaluates landscape identity parameters as descriptive units and analyses landscape identity according to natural, built, socioeconomic, and sociocultural parameters at various scales. Turkey’s Aegean Region was selected as a case study for the research because of its rich rural pattern created by the combination of diverse geomorphology, a unique rural architectural character, climatic conditions, the rural economy, and sociocultural structures. The research presents several findings related to physical landscape identity. In addition, it shows important aspects of rural settlements through the lens of landscape identity and highlights the importance of identity-based approaches for sustainable rural development.

Rural landscapes are acknowledged for their potential to restore human health due to natural characteristics. However, modern rural development has degraded these environments, thereby diminishing the restorative potential of rural landscapes. Few studies have systematically analyzed the impact of naturalness, landscape types, and landscape elements on restorativeness using both subjective and objective measurements. This study investigated the restorative effects of various rural landscapes in Guangzhou, employing electroencephalography and eye-tracking technologies to record physiological responses and using the Restorative Components Scale and the Perceived Restorativeness and Naturalness Scale to evaluate psychological responses. The results indicated the following: (1) There was a significant positive correlation between perceived naturalness and restorativeness, surpassing the impact of actual naturalness. (2) Different landscape types had varying impacts on restorativeness at the same level of perceived naturalness. Natural forest landscapes, artificial forest landscapes, and settlement landscapes exhibited the most substantial restorative effects among the natural, semi-natural, and artificial landscapes examined, respectively. (3) Restorative properties varied across landscape elements: trees and water significantly enhanced restorativeness, whereas constructed elements reduced it. Findings from this study can provide support for policymakers to make informed decisions regarding the selection and arrangement of rural landscape types and elements to enhance mental health and well-being.

In the context of climate change and rural revitalization, numerous solar photovoltaic (PV) panels are being installed on village roofs and lands, impacting the enjoyment of the new rural landscape characterized by PV panels. However, the visual acceptance of PV panels in rural areas of China is not yet fully understood. This study aims to identify and correlate three key influential factors that contribute to the acceptance and appreciation of PV panels in China's rural settings. A quasi-experiment was conducted, incorporating diverse landscapes into six rural settings, each containing both the original landscape and PV panels. The findings demonstrated that the original rural landscape was significantly more scenic than PV panels, and factors contributing to the appreciation of traditional landscapes, such as nostalgia, played a vital role in rejecting PV panels. Conversely, renewable energy-related factors, such as economic stakes and moral desirability, were found to contribute to the acceptance of PV panels. This study contributes to the strategic planning and design of solar PV panels in rural landscapes, taking into consideration social acceptance and local contexts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the tourism potential of the Polish–Czech borderlands (Klodzko Land, Lower Silesia, Poland), in which historical sacred sites, namely cemeteries and churches, play a significant role. An analysis of the most important features of sacred sites was carried out to present the diversity of the architectural richness of the region. At the same time, attention was paid to additional elements, such as their visual aspects and their impact on shaping space. The research is based on the sacred sites located on the Polish–Czech borderland. As part of the work, an analysis of historical, natural, and landscape conditions was performed along with the spatial layout of 106 cemeteries. During the field research, inventories of landscape and natural values were carried out. The assessment of landscape value was carried out using an original concept to enable an indication of site's tourism potential on the basis of visual aspects of its space. The article and the research methods contained within concern interdisciplinary research combining architecture, landscape architecture, socio-economic geography, and tourism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rural landscape is an integrated system of tangible and intangible cultural heritages in rural areas, which includes multiple attributes in terms of culture, spirit and nature. The multi-dimensional, holistic protection and promotion of the rural landscape is considered to be a challenging topic in the academic circle. In the past two decades, digital information platforms have been widely used in the field of protecting cultural heritage because of their convenience, as well as their cross-temporal and systematic nature. However, a digital information platform that is specifically designed for a rural landscape is still in the initial stage of experimentation and exploration, and there is a lack of systematic understanding and overall framework conception. In this paper, with the preliminary practice of the rural landscape digital information platform (RLDIP) in China in the past two decades as the example, a combination of qualitative and quantitative analysis is conducted to deeply explore the data source, data type, data organization and functional structure of the platform samples. The common characteristics, potential in application and typical problems of the current platform are summarized. What is more, based on the need for a comprehensive rural revitalization in such developing countries as China, a framework conception of the rural landscape digital information platform (RLDIP) is proposed, and its data-classification system, functional structure and digital process are identified. This study will provide a theoretical basis and technical reference for the digital information platform to develop its potential in overall protection, coordinated development and sustainable management of the rural landscape in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work carried out as part of construction on a ring road around Nardò (Lecce, South Italy) involved a votive aedicule attached to the perimeter wall of a rural building that had been scheduled for demolition. Provision was made for the movement and relocation of the building, dedicated to St. Mary Magdalene, to an adjacent area, in addition to the restoration of the pictorial decoration itself. The intervention was designed to conserve the building as testimony of its use for future generations, given its value and sense of identity for the local community. The project was largely conservatory, thus guaranteeing the continuity of its still active devotional function. In this sense, the restoration of the building was also associated with an educational aim of raising awareness of the importance of eco-compatible care of the landscape. So, this project highlights the importance of social, as much as environmental, sustainability.

The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has led to a surge in rural tourism, catering to consumers during the pandemic. However, rural tourism faces severe issues of homogeneity and environmental degradation owing to excessive development. Sustainable development of rural tourism is an urgent problem. This study, based on the average variable cost (AVC) theory, aims to explore the sustainable development of rural tourism landscapes with a focus on the Shijing area. A landscape evaluation system was established through factor analysis and weight calculations, with ten principal components contributing to a cumulative contribution rate of 77.196%. The weighted values for attractiveness, vitality, and resilience were 0.539, 0.297, and 0.164, respectively. The findings indicate that Caijiapo Village had the highest comprehensive score of 88.79 (good level of performance), whereas Laoyukou Village had the lowest comprehensive score of 80.25 (average level of performance). Caijiapo and Liyukou exhibited the strongest overall strength, whereas Liyuanpo and Xiazhuang had moderate overall strength, and Laoyukou had the weakest overall strength. The results reveal that all five villages possess rich natural landscapes and favorable geographical conditions, demonstrating the potential and attractiveness of rural tourism development. However, the overall carrying capacity was moderate and vitality was relatively weak. This supports the AVC theory application in rural tourism research and emphasizes the importance of rural landscape quality and economic vitality. The main contributions of this study are as follows: (1) the establishment of a rural tourism landscape evaluation system based on the AVC theory, providing a scientific assessment method for sustainable development; (2) the case evaluation in the Shiying area provides decision-makers with reference for development strategies; (3) emphasis on the importance of ecological conservation in rural tourism and providing recommendations to address issues of homogenization and environmental degradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[ Objective] The paper uses Geographic Information System (ArcGIS) as a platform to discuss the study of DEM data on the digital construction of rural landscape databases and the coupling relationship in geographic space of rural landscape. The aim is to further expand the coverage of China's land space digitization and provide practical theoretical basis and development possibility of quantitative planning for village level administrative zoning research. [Method] In this paper, Xiangyu Village, Junzhuang Town, Mentougou, West Beijing, is selected as the research object, and the document space database of the study area is constructed by building digital elevation model (DEM), ArcGIS stacked map weighting and visual interpretation methods. Moreover, its elevation equivalence, slope direction, and water flow direction are visually analyzed. [Result] The mountainous terrain and hydrological characteristics of Xiangyu Village are roughly consistent with the village layout; the living environment of Xiangyu Village is consistent with the terrain and texture, and it belongs to the rural landscape system of mountains, valleys and small watersheds. [ Conclusion] The results obtained through data visualization analysis are basically consistent with the traditional village planning pattern of Xiangyu Village; the rural landscape based on village level administrative divisions is still in the traditional planning stage, and there is great development space for village level geographic spatial survey. Therefore, it is necessary for relevant practitioners to make more contributions to fill the full coverage of China's land space digitization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]