An approach to spatial conservation practices: Historical landscape characterization

This thesis addresses the approach of historic landscape characterization within spatial conservation practices and presents an analysis supported by examples from around the world. While spatial conservation aims to protect natural and cultural heritage, historic landscape characterization is a significant approach to understanding the features and historical transformation of this heritage. This study emphasizes that the landscape is a process shaped by human activities, and the interactions from past to present form the values that need to be preserved. Historic landscape characterization enables the identification of these values through spatial analyses that consider geographical, cultural, and social components collectively. Examples implemented in different geographical regions around the world reveal the diversity and effectiveness of Historic Landscape Characterization approaches. The thesis reviews the existing literature on spatial conservation and historic landscape characterization, examining the body of work in this field. By exploring the significance of historic landscape characterization in spatial conservation practices and the diversity of its global applications, this thesis aims to contribute to the formation of conservation policies at both scientific and practical levels. Furthermore, it supports the development of new perspectives for creating sustainable methods for the conservation of historic landscapes.