Spatial Transformations and Urban Conservation of Religious-Historic Towns: A Case of Vrindavan, India

Abstract

The spatial transformations can be observed at different religious-historic towns of India due to urbanization. Research is based upon fact that there is substantial change in the built environment because of spatial transformations at the religious-historic towns. The process of modernization in the functions and spatial layout is unavoidable at any historic town. The study attempts to focus on various urban historic conservation components, including the look of historic buildings, their earlier uses, and its immediate surroundings to improve the built environment of historic towns. A theoretical framework for the urban conservation of ancient towns is the main objective of study. How to modernize the historic conservation function while preserving the space's texture and integrity. The research started with the investigation of the morphological growth of Mathura district, India through satellite images and in-depth study of the evolution process of street network in Vrindavan town, which is one of the main temple towns of Mathura district. There is a significant difference in the layout & architectural character of old part and the newly developed Vrindavan. Due to increased accessibility and movement, the spatial structure of traditional religious precincts, which were once local integration centres, has significantly changed. Increasing & changing mode of transportation and further increase in the religious tourism might be the cause or a big reason for the spatial transformations and correspondingly there is a challenge to conserve & preserve the religious precincts of historic towns. The study tries to analyze spatial transformations with the help of Historical GIS at different scales of urban form. Suggestive measures to conserve the environmental ambience of religious-historic towns are the outcome of the research.