In recent decades, Geoparks have gained a special place in sustainable development policies as a new model for integrated management of natural and cultural resources. The present study aims to analyze the mountain Geoparks registered in the UNESCO global network and develop a model that can be implemented in Iran, and to examine the capabilities of the Maragheh Plain in the northwest of the country to become a global Geopark.
The main topic of the study is to examine the role of ecological architecture in the formation of cultural and environmentally friendly spaces in Geoparks, especially in areas where geological structure, climate, local culture, and architectural form are in direct interaction with each other. In this regard, this study, using a qualitative approach and case analysis method, has examined five successful global Geoparks, including Canbula in China, Maratus in Indonesia, Long Son in Vietnam, Aran in the UK, and Tongurahua in Ecuador, in terms of architectural form, indigenous materials, adaptation to geology, cultural narrative, and local community participation.
The theoretical foundations of the study are based on three key perspectives: ecological architecture as a language of climate and culture, biological patterns of design from the perspective of Christopher Alexander, and Geopark as an interdisciplinary model of spatial design. Content analysis of official UNESCO sources, scientific articles, and geological and cultural data of the Maragheh region shows that this region has high potential to become a global Geopark with its geological diversity, traditional rock architecture, environmentally friendly materials, special earth colors (iron oxide), and ritual narratives.
The results of the research show that architectural design in conjunction with the geological context not only helps to enhance the visitor experience and preserve cultural heritage, but also paves the way for sustainable development, public education, and active participation of local communities in Geopark management. In this context, the Maragheh Plain can be introduced as a successful example of the coexistence of humans, nature, and culture in the form of a global Geopark.