Semiotics and Comparative Analysis: Smart and Entropic Positioning in the North Direction of Stepped-Form Ancient Villages Case Study: (Masouleh, Abyaneh, Palangan), Iran
Subject Areas : Journal of Radar and Optical Remote Sensing and GIS
Farnaz Sedehian
1
*
,
Hamideh Kavusi
2
1 - Department of Urban, Urban Design, Guilan University, Rasht, Iran
2 - Rasht University of Science and Culture
Keywords: ARC GIS, Box-counting, Entropy, Geomorphological Location, Global MAP, Underground Water Direction,
Abstract :
Objective: This study explores the role of geomorphology, astronomy, and underground water tables in determining the location and orientation of terraced villages in Iran, focusing on spring routing, underground spring height (MAD), and the sun’s noon alignment with the village center. It also examines ridge line alignment, building orientations toward mountain fronts, and spatial connections within each settlement.
Methods: The research employs a box-counting method and a cubing algorithm to analyze topographical data, enabling the calculation of visible adjacent and non-adjacent zones. Ridge line alignments and building orientations in the four cardinal directions are studied in relation to the central core of each village. Comparative analyses of MAD, TIN, and river flow directions across the case study villages—MASOULEH, ABYANEH, and PALANGAN—provide insights into spatial patterns and proportional relationships.
Results: The findings indicate a significant correlation between the sun's rotational axis at noon, ridge line orientation, and village centers. The MAD and TIN analysis revealed comparable ratios in river paths across the villages. Specifically, MASOULEH and PALANGAN showed proportional similarities in their lower halves, while ABYANEH exhibited nearly double the values of the other two villages. Additionally, flow river direction patterns varied, with ABYANEH and MASOULEH showing a 3×3 structure, compared to PALANGAN’s 2×2 configuration.
Conclusion: The study emphasizes the smart integration of environmental and astronomical factors in the spatial organization of terraced Iranian villages. The alignment of natural and built elements reflects advanced rural planning, highlighting the role of geomorphology and astronomy in shaping the settlement patterns of Masouleh, Abyaneh, and Palangan.
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