Extended Abstract
Background and objectives: The study of agricultural heritage provides valuable insights into the indigenous perspectives on the interaction between human societies and the natural environment. Analyzing various dimensions of this heritage explains how natural resources were historically harnessed for subsistence. The limitations of past human capacities, coupled with the absence of advanced agricultural technologies, prompted innovative responses—transforming constraints into opportunities and developing environmentally adapted and efficient practices. Agricultural heritage encompasses a system of tangible and intangible values, manifesting in the physical forms of gardens, agricultural fields, and associated structures, as well as in non-material elements such as traditional farming techniques. Climatic diversiyt, historical developments, and culturally specific approaches to agricultural organization have contributed to the emergence of diverse agricultural heritage systems across different regions. In the contemporary context, the recognition and revitalization of agricultural heritage are critical not only for sustaining rural livelihoods but also for preserving  rural communities and the conservation of traditional ecological knowledge.
Methods: The revival of agricultural heritage values can contribute to tourism, landscape enhancement, environmental sustainability, and heritage preservation. However, a comprehensive understanding requires the recognition and study of both tangible and intangible aspects, as these aspects are interdependent. This qualitative research seeks to examine the agricultural heritage of a village, with a particular focus on farm-related buildings, through an integrated approach that considers both physical structures and non-physical cultural practices. In this context, a review of existing literature on agricultural heritage led to the selection of Vaneshan village as the case study. Over a three-year period, research was conducted on the village’s vernacular architecture and its agricultural heritage. Data were collected through field observations, surveys, and interviews, and were subsequently analyzed using a logical and interpretive framework.
Findings: The findings indicate that the agricultural heritage of Vaneshan village is shaped by two key climatic and geographical features: the Kohan Rud River and Deegah Mountain. Although the river does not directly supply irrigation water, its flow enhances the local groundwater, which feeds the village’s three qanats and their water sources. The alluvial soil along the riverbanks and the elevated groundwater levels make these areas significantly more suitable for cultivation compared to the steep mountain slopes, which demand more intensive irrigation. Conversely, the selection of the fortified mountain area for residential settlement reflects an intentional avoidance of high groundwater zones. Consequently, the village has expanded along the river, due to the agricultural potential of the plain and the natural barriers posed by Deegah Mountain. Two key architectural elements representing Vaneshan’s agricultural heritage are the Pigeon Tower and the Keche. The Pigeon Tower, beyond providing nutrient-rich manure for agriculture, also serves as a watchtower and acts as a dual function that distinguishes its form from similar structures in the region. The Keche, a temporary dwelling used during agricultural activity, plays a significant role in both the functional landscape and the visual character of the fields. It is considered a distinctive and valuable feature within the village’s agricultural heritage system.
Conclusion: In examining the agricultural heritage of Vaneshan village, it is essential to consider intangible cultural elements, such as traditional farming practices, irrigation methods, and harvesting techniques, as these inform and influence the physical characteristics of agricultural structures. A comprehensive and accurate understanding of agricultural heritage requires an integrated approach that includes both tangible and intangible dimensions. The Keche represents a form of temporary shelter used in the agricultural lands of Vaneshan during planting and harvesting seasons. Unlike permanent village dwellings, which serve as year-round residences, the Keche is used seasonally and remains unoccupied outside periods of agricultural activity. Despite its temporary function, the Keche reflects the architectural values found in Vaneshan’s historic homes, notably simplicity, minimalism, and proportionality. These three attributes help define the distinction between the permanent house and the seasonal Keche, and have their architectural and cultural boundaries.