Spatial drivers of multi-type cultural heritage in the Taihu Basin and implications for integrated conservation

Abstract Revealing the spatial patterns of cultural heritage and their driving factors is crucial for formulating protection policies. This study employs Geographic Information System technology and applies the “Pattern Description - Factor Explanation - Strategy Response” framework to explore the spatial patterns, driving factors, and implications for the protection of cultural heritage in the Taihu Basin. The results indicate that cultural heritage in the Taihu Basin exhibits an aggregation trend, forming a “4 + N” spatial structure centered around Taihu Lake. Various influencing factors interact and co-evolve to shape the spatial patterns of cultural heritage. Natural ecology serves as the foundation for the formation and persistence of cultural heritage, while socio-economics is the dominant factor in its evolution and development. Historical culture is the key factor in its transformation and revitalization. Finally, this research proposes a three-tier framework “Point-Chain-Unit” which provides a new approach for the systematic protection of cultural heritage.