Document Type : Original Research Paper

Authors

• Elnaz Abizadeh ¹
• Somayyeh Ghadimzadeh ²

¹ Department of Architecture and Urban Planning, Technical and Vocational University (TVU), Tehran, Iran

² Department of Restoration of Historical Monuments, Faculty of Architecture, Urban Planning and Art, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran

Abstract

Historical-cultural places carry a significance that extends beyond their physical attributes; they embody social relationships and values that are key to defining their meaning. Considering this, they require conservation alongside attention to interdisciplinary approaches. Meanwhile, a major obstacle to meaning-based conservation is the communication gap and conflict of interest among various beneficiaries, indicating a lack of social capital regarding conservation. This article aims to shed light on the process of utilizing social capital as an interdisciplinary phenomenon that can effectively preserve historical and cultural places. The study was done using a descriptive-analytical approach based on library and documentary sources. The findings reveal that the untapped communicative potential of historical and cultural places can be utilized to enhance social structures and reinforce social capital for the purpose of conservation. This method is achievable in urban neighborhoods and when interdisciplinary techniques are applied. In line with the proposed framework, improving the cognitive component of social capital and the network of shared environmental meanings, which includes emotional, cultural, social, and functional categories, results in the development and progression of social values. These include a sense of belonging, commitment, cooperation, and influence, all of which have the potential to stimulate social capital for conservation and cyclically enhance the place-based communication context. In this respect, actions such as promoting cultural awareness, preserving the sensory appeal and memorable aspects of the environment, upholding traditions, enhancing the quality of spaces for social interaction, and supporting local businesses are compulsory.

Keywords

• social capital
• conservation
• shared environmental meanings
• empowerment
• place-based communication context

Main Subjects

• Interdisciplinary