Research on the Spatial and Temporal Distribution and Evolution Characteristics of Ancient Architectural Heritage in Southeastern Zhejiang

Southeastern Zhejiang boasts a large number of ancient architectural heritage sites and features, representing a rich cultural heritage. However, this region lacks a unified and effective planning system and coordination mechanism. Each county and city operates independently, resulting in low levels of resource sharing and utilization. There is a lack of a long-term, comprehensive, and effective planning and management framework. Therefore, this study focuses on 268 ancient architectural heritage sites in southeastern Zhejiang. By employing correlation analysis methods on the ArcGIS platform, this study summarizes the spatial and temporal distribution characteristics and evolutionary patterns of ancient architectural heritage. The study aims to provide guidance for subsequent comprehensive research, protection, and planning, thereby achieving the sustainable development of the region’s ancient architectural cultural heritage. The conclusions are as follows: (1) Southeastern Zhejiang’s ancient architectural heritage has formed an overall spatial distribution pattern known as the “three cores and three belts”. Targeted sustainable development strategies for ancient architectural heritage can be proposed accordingly. (2) The overall spatial distribution of ancient architectural cultural heritage in southeastern Zhejiang is highly correlated with the natural environment. It is important to consider the correlation between the overall spatial distribution of ancient architectural cultural heritage and the natural environment in the region during subsequent development. (3) The distribution of newly added architectural heritage in southeastern Zhejiang is influenced by factors such as water resource reforms, immigration policies, administrative changes, and cultural ideologies. Throughout history, southeastern Zhejiang has exhibited different spatial distribution structures, laying the foundation for the study of its genealogy and lineage of ancient architectural heritage. The contribution of this research lies in providing targeted references for the coordinated development and systematic revitalization of ancient architectural cultural heritage for the future of southeastern Zhejiang.