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Alavian Sadr M, Izadi M S, Shahabian P, Talebian M H. (2024). Framework for the Organization and Management of Historic Urban Landscapes; A Case Study of Mashhad, Iran. Athar. 45(105), 85-118. doi:10.22034/45.105.4
URL: http://athar.richt.ir/article-2-1699-en.html

Abastract
The historical urban landscape (HUL) approach has emerged as a contemporary method in urban conservation, aiming to balance preservation and development while enhancing urban spaces. This approach recognizes the importance of both tangible and intangible cultural values within the historical urban context. This research, classified as developmental-applied, seeks to identify the key components of an HUL through a systematic review of the spatial and functional structure of Mashhad's historical center. By employing qualitative research methods such as logical reasoning, content analysis, hermeneutics, observation, and case studies, the fundamental concepts of the HUL approach, including tangible and intangible values and paying attention to the effective component of authenticity and integrity, have been explored. This research endeavors to "re-read" Mashhad's historical urban landscape, investigating the layers that contribute to its unique cultural significance. It aims to identify the primary elements that can reinforce both tangible and intangible values within the city's overall image and landscape. This study serves as a foundational framework for examining, identifying, sampling, modeling, and planning the development of urban and historical landscapes. It further analyzes the perspectives of various stakeholders to formulate a framework for organizing and managing the HUL in Mashhad's historical center. By examining the HUL approach through the case study of Mashhad, Iran, this research aims to identify key components and develop strategies for conservation and development. Using qualitative research methods, the study examines the tangible and intangible values of Mashhad's historical landscape and proposes strategies for preserving and enhancing these values. The findings of this research can serve as a model for other historical cities in Iran.
Keywords: Historical Urban Landscape, Conservation and Development, Change Management, Sustainable Development, Mashhad City.

Introduction
In the development of historic cities, two opposing approaches have always existed. One emphasizes strict conservation, aiming to preserve buildings and historical fabrics, while the other supports large-scale interventions and transformations. Over time, these perspectives have evolved, as reflected in international charters, documents, and resolutions. The Historic Urban Landscape (HUL) approach offers a comprehensive perspective that integrates both conservation and development. It seeks to address urban development challenges in valuable historical areas, striving for a constructive balance between preservation and modernization. This approach considers the specific conditions and challenges of historic urban areas and refines strategies accordingly. The HUL approach is multidimensional, encompassing physical, economic, social, and cultural aspects. It does not focus solely on historical sections but considers the entire historic city. This research applies the HUL approach to systematically analyze the spatial-functional structure of the historic center of Mashhad. It aims to identify key elements and components that shape both tangible and intangible values in the city’s landscape. By using Mashhad as a case study, the research seeks to establish a model for recognizing, sampling, and planning urban and historical landscapes. Additionally, it explores how different urban sectors interact in the development process to formulate a comprehensive framework for organizing and managing Mashhad’s historic urban landscape.

Discussion
This research examines the key components of the historic urban landscape concerning the preservation and development of the historical center of Mashhad. It explores the causes of spatial, social, and functional transformations in this area and aims to establish a framework for conservation and development. Research Questions The study addresses three main questions: 1. What are the key components of the historic urban landscape in relation to preserving and developing Mashhad’s historical center?
2. What are the factors driving spatial, social, and functional transformations in this area?
3. How can a comprehensive framework for conservation and development be formulated based on the governing elements and relationships of Mashhad’s historical center?
This research methodology is based on qualitative content analysis, interpretivism, observation, and case study, aligning with a qualitative approach.
 It is based on an interpretive paradigm and utilizes the grounded theory methodology. Data collection involved in-depth interviews, participatory observations, and field notes, alongside literature reviews of scientific articles and urban development plans. The study employed NVIVO12 software for thematic analysis and coding, enabling a structured categorization of collected data. Research Background The study reviews various international and national sources on the historic urban landscape approach, including key texts such as "Historic Urban Landscape: Managing Heritage in an Urban Century" (Bandarin & Van Oers, 2012) and UNESCO’s 2011 recommendation on the Historic Urban Landscape (HUL). It examines the evolution of conservation and urban development policies, emphasizing the balance between modernization and heritage preservation. Findings The analysis categorizes the historic urban landscape into five main dimensions: 1. Tangible (Natural): Geographic and environmental features affecting urban development. 2. Tangible (Physical): Architectural and infrastructural elements shaping the urban form. 3. Intangible: Cultural and historical values, traditions, and collective memory. 4. Perceptual: The sensory and symbolic experience of the urban environment. 5. Managerial: Governance structures and policies influencing urban conservation.
The research highlights significant disruptions in the historic fabric of Mashhad, primarily due to large-scale urban projects and commercial expansions. The study identifies a decline in residential populations and weakened connections between the historical core and its surrounding urban fabric.

Conclusion
The study proposes a structured framework for managing Mashhad’s historic urban landscape by integrating conservation with sustainable urban development. It emphasizes the importance of participatory governance, economic vitality, and cultural continuity. The proposed model seeks to reconcile heritage conservation with contemporary urban needs, ensuring that historical identity remains a vital component of future urban transformations. This research provides valuable insights into the complexities of urban heritage management, offering a strategic approach to balancing preservation and development in historic cities.