The publication of the European Journal of Geography

(EJG) is based on the European Association of Geogra-

Research Article
phers’ goal to make European Geography a worldwide
reference and standard. Thus, the scope of the EJG is to
publish original and innovative papers that will substan-
The Role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
tially improve, in a theoretical, conceptual, or empirical
way the quality of research, learning, teaching, and ap-
plying geography, as well as in promoting the signifi-
in Participatory Conservation of Heritage Areas
cance of geography as a discipline. Submissions are en-
couraged to have a European dimension. The European
Journal of Geography is a peer-reviewed open access
journal and is published quarterly. Hamid Salimi 1✉, Somayeh Fadaei Nezhad Bahramjerdi 1 & Rana Tootoonchi 2
Received: 05/07/2024
1 School of Architecture, College of Fine Arts, University of Tehran, Iran
Revised: 31/08/2024
2 Institute of Archaeology, Heritage Conservation and Art History, Otto- Friedrich University of Bamberg, Germany
Revised: 28/09/2024

Accepted: 15/10/2024
✉ Correspondence: [email protected]
Online: 16/10/2024

Abstract: In contemporary heritage management, participatory approaches play a crucial role in identify-
Special Issue:
Spatial Humanities & Contemporary ing and safeguarding values for a diverse range of stakeholders. This inclusive methodology involves pro-
Geographical Approaches fessionals, local communities, historians, conservationists, and policymakers in conservation efforts. Suc-
cessfully addressing challenges in stakeholder engagement is crucial for promoting ownership and stew-
ardship, thereby supporting sustainable conservation efforts. Various methods such as community work-
shops and collaborative mapping exercises have been adopted. Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
Guest Editors:
Dr. Seraphim Alvanides have emerged as a valuable tool in facilitating stakeholder participation. This research explores the po-
Dr. Joana Catarina Vieira Paulino tential of GIS in participatory heritage conservation. It aims to present principles and considerations to
Dr. Alexandros Bartzokas-Tsiompras
outline the practical application of GIS in engaging communities for heritage conservation. By bridging
traditional heritage management practices with contemporary participatory methods, the research aims
to enhance inclusive, informed, and sustainable conservation efforts. On this basis, qualitative methods
and logical argumentation are used to analyze research content, drawing on qualitative and quantitative
data from previous studies. A conceptual model is presented through a literature review, followed by an
evaluation of five case studies from Iran, The USA, Finland, Egypt, and Spain that have utilized GIS in
participatory planning processes. The research highlights GIS's capability to capture diverse social groups'
perspectives on heritage values and priorities using participatory mapping. This integration of community
DOI: 10.48088/ejg.si.spat.hum.h.sal.1.11
insights empowers stakeholders in decision-making processes, enhancing inclusivity in heritage manage-
ISSN: 1792-1341 ment and supporting community-driven initiatives for urban heritage preservation.

Keywords: Geographical Information System (GIS), Public Participation Geographical Information System (PPGIS), Par-
ticipatory Conservation, Heritage Area

Copyright: © 2025 by the authors. Licensee Eu-

ropean Association of Geographers (EUROGEO).
This article is an open access article distributed Highlights:
under the terms and conditions of the Creative ● This study explores the pivotal role of GIS in fostering participatory conservation efforts in heritage areas.
Commons Attribution (CC BY) license. ● The research offering a framework which outlines key principles for GIS-based participatory conservation.
● Through the evaluation of five diverse case studies, this research showcases the practical considerations of GIS in
participatory conservation.

1. Introduction
It has been proven that local stakeholders can support and actively contribute to the success of heritage planning (Li et al., 2020; Mirzakhani
et al., 2021). While referring to a wide range of stakeholders in planning historical areas, many world heritage conservation organizations have
emphasized the importance of local communities, their traditions, and their way of life (Landorf, 2009, pp. 495–497). For heritage planning, par-
ticipation can enable consensus in defining heritage significance and values to promote heritage resources for sustainable conservation and de-
velopment (Huang, 2024). Therefore, participatory heritage planning protects the features and values important to different stakeholders
(Foroughi et al., 2023, p. 9). With a proper participatory approach, people can actively participate in planning and find practical, local, and long-
term solutions for urban conservation and development programs (Ericson, 2006). Hence, Urban experts have used community-based participa-
tory research for decades, citing benefits such as faster identification of community-relevant research targets, and accelerated transfer of
knowledge and findings to the community. Also, researchers from heritage organizations have found that balancing conservation measures with
community-based interests will require the participation of people to upgrade their communities to a protected status (Lafreniere et al., 2019, p.
2).
GIS is a technology used for capturing, storing, managing, analyzing, and visualizing geographic data (Huang, 2024) which has been high-
lighted as essential future knowledge (Humble, 2023). GIS integrates geographical spatial data, such as maps, satellite images, and terrain data,
and attributes, such as demographic statistics and land use, to create visual maps and conduct spatial analysis, facilitating a better understanding

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 European Journal of Geography 2025, 16 (1) ● p. s2

of spatial relationships and decision-making (Huang, 2024). The use of GIS in urban planning helps planners in the orderly development of settle-
ments and infrastructure services in an integrated manner (Box, 1999, p. 66). The use of GIS in this field varies depending on the spatial context,
its development and design, the analysis and modeling of various ongoing processes, and the relationships between these processes or develop-
ments within the space. (Xhafa & Kosovrasti, 2015, p. 85). GIS was established as a support for urban planning in a participatory way (Mollo et al.,
2020). On this basis, the Participatory Geographic Information System emerged in the mid-1990s in response to criticisms of GIS regarding its
social nature and its effects on society (Mollo et al., 2020). On the other hand, existing academic literature and research increasingly recognize
the role of information technologies in cultural heritage (Liu et al., 2024). Coupled with advancements in modern technologies like remote sensing
(Agapiou et al., 2015), Artificial Intelligence (AI) (Mishra & Lourenço, 2024), Virtual Reality (VR) (Zhong et al., 2021), 3D modeling, Building Infor-
mation Modelling (BIM) (Pocobelli et al., 2018), laser scanning (Greenop & Landorf, 2017), and web map services (Puertas-Aguilar et al., 2023),
GIS has become integral to advanced and digital conservation practices (Liu et al., 2024) and has started to be considered as an auxiliary tool for
heritage conservation (Giannopoulou et al., 2014). This has broadened participation in conservation efforts beyond professional circles (Mollo et
al., 2020). as well as in interpreting historical geographical information, thereby enhancing the understanding of the history and cultural back-
ground of heritage (Santos et al., 2023).
This study aims to explore the role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in facilitating participatory conservation efforts in heritage areas,
Hence, the theoretical foundation of this study will delve into the utilization of GIS in both heritage conservation and public engagement. Subse-
quently, the article will introduce a theoretical framework that highlights key principles crucial for GIS-based participatory conservation. The fol-
lowing section of the study will focus on evaluating five case studies from Iran, the USA, Finland, Egypt, and Spain based on these fundamental
principles. Eventually, the insights gained from the case study evaluations will provide support for the theoretical considerations outlined in the
study.

2. Literature Review

2.1. GIS & Heritage Conservation

The pioneering GIS, developed by Canadian surveyor R. Tomlinson in 1963, marked the beginning of GIS as an important tool in cultural
heritage fields (Liu et al., 2024). Acknowledging cultural heritage as a finite resource imbued with inherent prospects for future investigation has
brought to the forefront the significance of GIS in the realm of cultural heritage management (Huang, 2024). GIS is a valuable tool for managing
cultural heritage resources (Santos et al., 2023), empowering heritage managers to access, organize, analyze, and retrieve data effectively (Huang,
2024). Its applications include defining protected areas (Tezel et al., 2021), incorporating heritage values into development planning (Brown et al.,
2018), and forecasting the impacts of development projects on heritage sites (Ababneh et al., 2019). Archaeologists also utilize GIS for analyzing
known cultural resources and predicting the locations of undiscovered heritage assets (Box, 1999) as well as the creation of models showing the
main stratification at an archaeological site (Neubauer, 2004).
The role of GIS technology is pivotal in heritage preservation research, enabling the development of dynamic information management
systems (Liu et al., 2024) and effectively advancing the sustainable conservation and transmission of heritage resources. It can be used to analyze
and assess the impacts of natural and anthropogenic threats on heritage, such as geological disasters, Global Change, and urban expansion, to
implement appropriate conservation measures (Huang, 2024). Its use could lead to efficient ideas for urban transformations and relevant plans
for using heritage assets, leveraging the existing heritage and territory potentials towards sustainable and smart city development (Giannopoulou
et al., 2014). Furthermore, GIS can be utilized for the digital recording and document management of heritage (Santos et al., 2023), integrating
spatial and attribute data of heritage sites (Huang, 2024). It also serves as valuable support for recording and classifying elements to be included
in HBIM libraries to accurately describe the built heritage to be modeled (Mollo et al., 2020). The evolution of GIS applications in heritage studies,
driven by the development of historical urban landscape methodologies, incorporates modern technologies like HBIM and digital preservation
techniques to offer a robust tool for understanding, protecting, and managing heritage resources (Santos et al., 2023). Additionally, the creation
of thematic maps enhances the system's usability and user-friendliness (Giannopoulou et al., 2014).
In the realm of heritage conservation, Historical GIS (H-GIS) is an interdisciplinary field that merges historical knowledge with GIS expertise
(Gregory & Ell, 2007, p. 2). Scholars have acknowledged the value of HGIS-based analyses in reexamining established historical narratives from
new vantage points (Knowles, 2016). While previous studies have underscored the significance of HGIS methodology, they have also highlighted
a key obstacle facing HGIS research: the substantial time and resource investments needed to construct the requisite geographic datasets
(Knowles, 2016; Lafreniere et al., 2019, p. 2; Southall, 2014). When it comes to shaping this data, experts frequently take on a primary role, while
the involvement of local communities tends to be minimal. Through the engagement of the general public in the collection and generation of data,
a community-participatory strategy within HGIS strives to uphold and protect heritage, history, the environment, and traditions. Ultimately, this
approach endeavors to enhance community awareness of their historical legacy through the utilization of location-based technologies (Lafreniere
et al., 2019).

2.2. GIS & Public Participation

Since the late 1980s, concerns have been raised in the academic field about the accountability of GIS from political, economic, social and
ethical perspectives. In particular, this concern focused on the social implications of how people, space, and the environment are represented in
GIS (Stewart et al., 2008, p. 353). The term Public Participation Geographic Information System (PPGIS) was coined in 1996 in the United States of
America to describe how GIS technology can support public participation in various programs aimed at the inclusion and empowerment of mar-
ginalized populations (Brown, 2012, p. 7). This leads to an equitable citizen-researcher-government partnership and increased trust and empow-
erment by stakeholder groups (Robinson et al., 2017). Hence, given these foundational concerns about accountability and representation in GIS,
the emergence of PPGIS underscores the evolution of participatory methodologies aimed at fostering equity and empowerment within commu-
nities.
Participatory Geographic Information System (PGIS), Voluntary Geographic Information System (VGI or VGIS), Public Participation Geo-
graphic Information System (PPGIS) and Community Action Geographic Information System (CAGIS) are related terms that describe the processes

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of collecting and using non-expert spatial information through a participatory approach with GIS (Brown et al., 2022; Brown & Kyttä, 2014, p. 123;
Stewart et al., 2008). The term Voluntary Geographical Information System (VGIS) typically uses citizen-initiated, easy-to-use sampling methods
that generate individual cartographic contributions. VGI describe how citizens can use GPS devices to act as "volunteer sensors" and produce
collective geospatial knowledge (Sofianopoulos et al., 2024). The ubiquity of user-generated spatial information and mapping applications in VGIS
has contributed to the "crowdsourcing" of spatial information, where content is requested from a large group of people, especially an online
community (Brown & Kyttä, 2014, p. 126). Crowdsourcing can be a powerful tool for enhancing public participation in urban planning processes.
In general, crowdsourcing can be considered as an activity of using the power of the crowd to accomplish a task or to solve a problem (Nummi,
2018). The main goal of CAGIS (Community Action Geographic Information System) is to ensure that community members are allowed to take
ownership of research, questions and design, in a way that provides the community with dynamic tools and skills to help Leave it to the decision
making in the present and the future. This approach has the potential to create actions that may in turn lead to the refinement of GIS technology
and more importantly to community empowerment (Stewart et al., 2008, p. 356). In developing countries, the focus of PGIS has been on social
learning and social participation. PGIS is used as a development tool to encourage community identity, and empowerment and build social capital.
Promoting social justice and equality is often an implicit goal of this process. In many cases, the participation component is more important than
the resulting maps, which are assumed to be the intellectual property of the people and communities that created them (Brown & Kyttä, 2014, p.
125). In contrast, PPGIS may be sanctioned by government agencies, especially in Western democracies, as a more effective tool for engaging in
public participation and community consultation in land use planning and decision-making (Brown, 2012, p. 11; Mukherjee, 2015). Nevertheless,
despite the nuanced distinctions among them, this paper will collectively regard PGIS, VGI, PPGIS, and CAGIS as synonymous to examine their
influence on participatory methodologies in the conservation of heritage areas.
From Brown's point of view, using GIS in participatory planning can lead to identifying spatial features and development priorities, support-
ing or non-supporting previous decisions, and providing planning alternatives (Brown, 2012, p. 11). These features rely on people's prior experi-
ences in a place identified through participatory mapping (Brown & Kyttä, 2014, p. 127). With participatory mapping, it is possible to combine
appreciative knowledge from participants with spatially specific information about physical planning solutions (Brown et al., 2022). Radil and Jiao
believe the main advantage of PPGIS is the ability to combine and contextualize quantitative data with community perceptions in a consensus-
driven dialogue with stakeholder groups (Radil & Jiao, 2016). Thompson argues that integrated community-based GIS can "inform processes and
relationships rather than extract patterns from large volumes of data" (Thompson, 2015). Hence, PPGIS aimed at advancing the level of citizens’
involvement in decision-making in urban planning by using online, GIS-based, and interactive maps (Poplin, 2012). This can be a potential tool for
plan evaluation, helping identify place-based conflicts among various interests and finding optimised community land use outcomes (Brown et al.,
2022).
In summary, the theoretical framework of this research posits that the Main goal of participatory conservation in heritage areas is to
facilitate sustainable conservation and development (Ericson, 2006; Huang, 2024). Subsequently, the application of Geographic Information Sys-
tems (GIS) in this context can be clarified through four fundamental principles: 1- Integrating spatial and attribute data through digital recording
of heritage resources (Huang, 2024; Mollo et al., 2020; Santos et al., 2023); 2- Predicting and assessing potential impacts in heritage areas and
providing planning alternatives (Box, 1999; Brown, 2012; Brown et al., 2022; Huang, 2024); 3- Advancing heritage comprehension through the
identification of heritage values (Brown, 2012; Brown et al., 2022; Knowles, 2016; Mollo et al., 2020; Santos et al., 2023); 4- Encouraging commu-
nity identity and ownership through the participatory mapping process (Brown et al., 2022; Brown & Kyttä, 2014; Poplin, 2012; Stewart et al.,
2008). Figure 1 illustrates the theoretical framework of this study.

Figure 1. Theoretical framework of the study, highlighting the key principles of GIS in participatory conservation goal

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 European Journal of Geography 2025, 16 (1) ● p. s4

3. Materials and Methods

This study adopts a qualitative approach, employing logical argumentation to analyze pertinent research content and integrating both qual-
itative and quantitative data from previous studies. After a thorough examination of the theoretical framework, the paper introduces a conceptual
model for a literature review, delineating the fundamental principles that underscore the significance of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in
participatory conservation efforts. Subsequently, the paper investigates five case studies that have utilized GIS in participatory planning processes,
spanning various contexts including developed and developing countries. Specifically, the case studies draw from previous research on Participa-
tory GIS (PPGIS) in Iran, the USA, Finland, Egypt, and Spain offering a comprehensive exploration of the applications and implications of GIS in
participatory approaches. After examining the study studies, their main strategies were extracted (n=20), and subsequently, the most relevant
strategies were selected and utilized as research considerations (n=12) following the research's principles.

4. Case Studies
The article seeks to explicate the effectiveness and potential of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in fostering inclusive and participatory
approaches to heritage areas. In light of this, the research evaluates five case studies from Iran, The USA, Finland, Egypt, and Spain that have
utilized GIS in participatory planning processes. The selection of the five case studies for this research is grounded in the need to evaluate a diverse
array of contexts that encompass both developed and developing countries, thereby providing a comprehensive understanding of participatory
conservation practices. By including various heritage areas—such as urban environments, rural landscapes, industrial landscape, religious com-
plexes, and villages—this study captures the multifaceted nature of heritage conservation across different settings. Furthermore, the case studies
represent distinct projects with varying objectives, allowing for a nuanced exploration of how specific goals influence conservation strategies.
Additionally, the incorporation of various types of strategies utilizing the Public Participatory Geographic Information Systems (PPGIS) approach
highlights the adaptability and effectiveness of participatory methods in engaging communities and addressing local heritage concerns. The loca-
tion of these cases is displayed in Figure 2. Subsequently, an overview of the objectives and strategies within their PPGIS process is presented in
Table 1.

Figure 2. The location of case studies on Google Earth, 2024: (a) Valiasr Street, Tehran, Iran; (b) Michigan’s copper country, Keweenaw Penin-
sula, USA; (c) Nikkilä village, Sipoo, Finland; (d) Religious Complex, Old Cairo, Egypt; and (e) Teruel rural, Spain

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4.1. Valiasr Street, Tehran, Iran

The initial case study focuses on the values embedded in the historical urban landscape of Valiasr Street in Tehran, Iran, intending to prioritise
conservation management efforts. It highlights key areas that are critical and imbalanced while evaluating the street's values through the lens of
public opinion. Utilizing Public Participation Geographic Information Systems (PPGIS), the study collects and analyzes public perceptions, merging
various data sources to produce a thorough spatial analysis. It visualizes the distribution of historical, cultural, social, economic, aesthetic, and
natural values as understood by the community. The research seeks to improve public involvement in cultural heritage management and to guide
more informed decision-making that honours and safeguards the area's diverse heritage. Additionally, it contributes to the wider discussion on
the Historic Urban Landscape approach, stressing the importance of incorporating public perceptions and values into urban heritage management
strategies (Andaroodi & Taqipour Anari, 2018).

4.2. Michigan’s copper country, Keweenaw Peninsula, USA

The second case study is The Keweenaw Time Traveler (KeTT) project located in Michigan's Copper Country, a historically significant region
in copper mining and industrialization in the United States. This project focuses on the development of a public participatory historical geographic
information system (PPHGIS). It leverages the region's rich copper mining and industrial history to engage the public in the creation and use of
historical geographic information systems (HGIS). By involving the community in classifying building materials, categorizing building uses, and
transcribing historical maps, the project has fostered a collaborative environment that enhances the relevance and sustainability of historical data
projects. The KeTT project's emphasis on community engagement and its innovative applications, such as the Document Building Material App,
Document Building Use App, Transcribe the Map App, and Explore App, have facilitated the collection of over 250,000 classifications and numerous
user-submitted stories. The project's collaborative consensus model for data classification ensures accuracy and addresses common challenges in
crowdsourcing historical data. The KeTT project's success in maintaining public interest and engagement through outreach efforts under-scores
its value as a model for public participatory historical GIS, enriching historical scholarship and promoting a deeper understanding of local heritage
(Lafreniere et al., 2019).

4.3. Nikkilä village, Sipoo, Finland

The third case study explores the use of Participatory Public Geographic Information Systems (PPGIS) and social media to crowdsource local
knowledge for urban planning in Nikkilä, Finland, aiming to uncover intangible cultural heritage through place-based memories. The "Nikkilä Mem-
ories" project compares non-professional knowledge with expert knowledge, revealing valuable insights into the intangible aspects of the built
cultural heritage. Utilizing a map questionnaire created with the "Maptionnaire" tool and social media data, the study gathered place-based mem-
ories and experiences from local residents, who shared their recollections using the hashtag #muistojennikkilä and a local Facebook group focused
on old buildings in Sipoo. This approach bridged the gap between expert evaluations and local values, highlighting the intangible dimensions of
Nikkilä's cultural heritage. The findings were used to inform urban planning processes, particularly in the context of the area's ongoing transfor-
mation and densification, ensuring that the planning process was more inclusive and culturally sensitive (Nummi, 2018).

4.4. Religious Complex, Old Cairo, Egypt

The fourth case study focuses on the Religious Complex in Old Cairo, Egypt. This complex is significant as it houses sites sacred to three
monotheistic religions, making it a unique and rare heritage location. The public spaces within this complex are the subject of the study, which
aims to understand how these spaces are used by the public and to evaluate their efficiency. In this project, the researchers conducted an online
survey using the Public Participation Geographic Information System (PPGIS) methodology, which involved mapping and rating various items on
an interactive map created with ArcGIS. The survey was designed to collect data on how users interact with and perceive the heritage public spaces
within the Religious Complex. Also, this survey captured georeferenced information for the precise mapping of opinions and preferences onto the
GIS map. The process is used to understand the specific locations within the heritage site that require attention or improvement (Elgobashi &
Elsemary, 2021).

4.5. Castellón and Teruel rural, Spain

The fifth case study examines the tangible and intangible aspects of a rural area in Spain, using a digital database to consolidate and visualize
findings from the assessment of ten historical urban centers, integrating historical, architectural, and social values to support the Territorial Her-
itage Action Plan. Focusing on a small region on the east coast of Spain, in the provinces of Castellón and Teruel, the study explores ten munici-
palities that share common characteristics such as demography, economy, society, problems, and limitations. These areas are notable for their
vernacular architecture, reflecting medieval culture and utilizing local materials and construction techniques. The primary goal of the project is to
enhance the understanding and preservation of the unique historic environments of these municipalities by employing a GIS-based methodology
to accurately catalogue and assess their historical, architectural, and social values. This approach aims to avoid general assumptions and focus on
the subtle differences and specificities of the local heritage. Ultimately, the research seeks to reinforce the Territorial Heritage Action Plan (THAP)
by integrating these detailed assessments into a digital database, promoting informed and effective heritage management and fostering a sense
of collective ownership and responsibility among the local communities (García-Esparza & Altaba Tena, 2020).

5. Results
By evaluating each case study in accordance with the main principles of the theoretical framework (Figure 1), the following insights can be
gained; In Valiasr Street, Tehran, Iran, the emphasis was on integrating spatial data by mapping the values that gathered from participants. Also,
this case identified areas of imbalance and prioritized conservation efforts via participatory mapping techniques. The project in Michigan’s cop-
per country, USA aims to enrich the understanding of the region's history by providing a comprehensive resource and promoting the long-term

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sustainability of historical data crowdsourcing through comprehensive public outreach. Additionally, this project facilitates the sharing of personal
historical narratives through spatial storytelling by creating an accessible platform for users to interact with historical spatial data. Nikkilä, Sipoo,
Finland, emphasized comparing expert opinions with local memories, identifying threats to intangible heritage, and crowdsourcing local knowledge
through PPGIS and social media. The Religious Complex in Old Cairo, Egypt, concentrated on identifying key improvement areas and utilizing GIS
technology to visualize planning scenarios for increased awareness. Lastly, in Castellón and Teruel rural, Spain, the study involved qualitative
analysis of participant values, reinforcing the Territorial Heritage Action Plan, and engaging the community through graphic data collection and
participatory activities. Further details regarding the relation between the strategies employed in the case studies and the key theoretical princi-
ples are presented in Table 2. Following this, the most pertinent strategies are identified as considerations for the theoretical principles of this
study.

Table 1. Clarifying the main objectives of each case study and strategies in their PPGIS process

Case Studies Main objectives of the project Main strategies in the PPGIS process
Valiasr Street, ● Gather public perceptions and values associated with different ● Create detailed maps with georeferenced data and visualize
Tehran, Iran segments of Valiasr Street using PPGIS. the spatial distribution of various values as perceived by the
(Andaroodi & public.
Taqipour Anari, 2018)
● Create a spatial database of historical, cultural, social, eco- ● Use GIS tools to identify patterns and clusters of public values
nomic, aesthetic, and natural values. by overlaying georeferenced survey data onto urban maps and
aerial photographs.
● Contribute to the broader discourse on the Historic Urban
Landscape (HUL) approach by emphasizing the importance of in-
tegrating public perceptions.
Michigan’s copper ● Enriching the overall understanding of the region's history as ● Facilitating the sharing of personal historical narratives
country, Keweenaw well as providing a more comprehensive resource. through spatial storytelling.
Peninsula, USA
(Lafreniere et al.,
● Fostering a sense of ownership and investment among com- ● Classifying historic building materials and uses and transcrib-
2019)
munity contributors. ing historical notations from maps.

● Promoting long-term sustainability and success of historical ● Creating an accessible platform that allows users to interact
data crowdsourcing projects through comprehensive public out- with historical spatial data.
reach
Nikkilä village, ● Uncover the intangible dimensions of Nikkilä’s cultural herit- ● Utilize the Maptionnaire tool, a map-based questionnaire was
Sipoo, Finland age by collecting residents' memories and experiences. created to collect place-based memories and experiences from
(Nummi, 2018) residents.
● Study and compare the values that residents and experts ● Encourage residents to share their memories and experiences
place on built cultural heritage objects. on social media using specific hashtags.

● Use social media and other tools to create visual representa-

tions of place-based experiences.

Religious Complex, ● Determine the needs and preferences of the public regarding ● Use Google Maps as a base map, allowing participants to place
Old Cairo, Egypt the commercial, social, recreational, and cultural activities that and rate items directly on the map.
(Elgobashi & Elsemary, could enhance the spaces.
2021)
● Assess the level of community attachment and sense of place ● Create placemaking criteria such as Access & Linkage, Comfort
among the users of the heritage public spaces. & Image, Uses & Activities, and Sociability to evaluate the public
spaces within the heritage site.
● Identify areas for improvement and development that could
lead to a better sense of belonging and pride in the place.

Castellón and Teruel ● Deepen the understanding of the unique historical, architec- ● Involve local residents and stakeholders through structured in-
rural, Spain tural, and social values, focusing on their vernacular architecture dividual and group interviews, workshops, and heritage days.
(García-Esparza & Alt- and cultural heritage.
aba Tena, 2020)
● Cataloging and mapping the tangible and intangible heritage ● Implement Geographic Information System (GIS) technology
elements, thereby creating a comprehensive digital database. to create detailed maps that catalog and georeferenced tangible
and intangible heritage elements.
● Foster a sense of collective ownership and responsibility ● Integrate various methodologies, such as the Historic Urban
among local communities by involving them in the heritage Landscape (HUL) approach and the Historic Area Assessment
preservation process. (HAA), to provide a comprehensive framework for assessing and
managing heritage values.

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Table 2. Assessment of the PPGIS process in each case study with key principles of the theoretical framework
Principle 1 Principle 2 Principle 3 Principle 4
Integrating spatial and Predicting and assessing Advancing heritage com- Encouraging community identity
Case Studies attribute data through potential impacts in herit- prehension through the and ownership through the par-
digital recording of her- age areas and providing identification of heritage ticipatory mapping process
itage resources planning alternatives values

Valiasr Street,
· Identification of unbal-
Tehran, Iran · Collecting the spatial · Redefinition of heritage
anced areas and Prioritiz- · Participatory activities through
(Andaroodi & values and distributing values based on various
ing conservation manage- engaging various stakeholders
Taqipour Anari, them on the GIS map stakeholders' opinion
ment activities
2018)

Keweenaw · Utilizing georefer- · Creating historical spatial

· Involving local people in
County, Michigan, enced historical maps data infrastructure (HSDI) · Transcribing historical nota-
sharing their historical nar-
USA to explore the spatial to predict planning's re- tions through a participatory
ratives about heritage val-
(Lafreniere et al., distribution of heritage sults on heritage re- mapping process.
ues.
2019) resources sources.

· Comparison expert · Collecting local people’s

Nikkilä village, · Identifying potential · Crowdsourcing of local peo-
opinions with local place-based memories re-
Sipoo, Finland threats to elements of in- ple’s knowledge with PPGIS and
people’s place-based lated to old buildings and
(Nummi, 2018) tangible cultural heritage social media
memories places

· Using a digital map

Religious Com- · Identifying key areas that
with the placemaking · Identifying important tan-
plex, Old Cairo, could benefit from im- · Using GIS technology to visual-
criteria to create a gible and intangible values
Egypt provements or develop- ize different planning scenarios
comprehensive under- that are important to the
(Elgobashi & Else- ments, based on public in- to promote greater awareness
standing of the public community
mary, 2021) put
spaces
· Qualitative analysis of
Castellón and Te- · Reinforce the Territorial · Collecting personal experi-
techniques and materi- · Participatory activities through
ruel rural, Spain Heritage Action Plan with ences in the form of mem-
als by mapping the val- explorative meetings and the
(García-Esparza & an assessment of Historic ories and values through
ues obtained from par- celebration of heritage days
Altaba Tena, 2020) Urban Cores graphic data collection
ticipants

The process of identifying strategies as considerations for the research's theoretical principles involves a systematic evaluation of five diverse
case studies, each contributing unique insights and methodologies. Initially, the evaluation of these case studies led to the extraction of twenty
main strategies, which were subsequently refined to twelve selected strategies that align closely with the established theoretical framework (Fig-
ure 3). Each case study, ranging from Valiasr Street in Tehran to rural areas in Spain, provided valuable data on spatial people's values, stakeholder
engagement, and the integration of local knowledge through Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The selected strategies for participatory
conservation of heritage areas are significantly informed by the contributions of various case studies. In Valiasr Street, Tehran, the focus on inves-
tigating and mapping spatial people's values using GIS, engaging stakeholders in participatory activities, and redefining heritage values based on
diverse stakeholder opinions highlights the importance of community involvement. Michigan’s copper country, USA Utilizes georeferenced histor-
ical maps and historical spatial data infrastructure (HSDI) to explore the distribution of heritage resources and predict potential effects on them.
This project also Involves local people in sharing their historical narratives about heritage values by transcribing historical notations from maps.
Nikkilä Village in Sipoo, Finland, enhances the approach by comparing expert opinions with local people's place-based memories and crowdsourc-
ing local knowledge through PPGIS and social media. The Religious Complex in Old Cairo, Egypt, adds value by identifying key areas for potential
improvements and utilizing GIS technology to visualize different planning scenarios, thereby promoting greater awareness. Lastly, Castellón and
Teruel Rural in Spain contribute by identifying the personal experiences of inhabitants through graphic data collection and increasing participatory
activities via explorative meetings and workshops. The selected strategies, therefore, serve as considerations for this research, facilitating a deeper
exploration of how GIS can enhance participatory approaches in heritage conservation and promote sustainable management practices that res-
onate with community identities and values.
Eventually, the most pertinent strategies of cases are highlighted and presented under each principle of the theoretical framework as con-
siderations (Table 3). In this study on the role of GIS in the participatory conservation of heritage areas, the considerations for each principle play
a crucial role in guiding the implementation of GIS tools effectively. The first principle focuses on integrating spatial and attribute data through
the digital recording of heritage resources. Considerations such as investigating the spatial people's values, utilizing georeferenced historical maps
to explore the spatial distribution of heritage resources, and comparing expert opinions with local people's place-based memories ensure that the
data integrated into GIS maps accurately represent the heritage area. The second principle emphasizes predicting and assessing potential impacts
in heritage areas and providing planning alternatives. Considerations like prioritizing conservation management activities, creating historical spatial

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 European Journal of Geography 2025, 16 (1) ● p. s8

data infrastructure (HSDI), and Identifying key areas that could benefit from improvements or developments aid in developing effective conserva-
tion strategies. The third principle aims to advance heritage comprehension through the identification of heritage values. Considerations such as
redefining values based on people's opinions, involving local people in sharing their historical narratives about heritage values, and identifying the
personal experiences of inhabitants through graphic data collection contribute to a deeper understanding of the heritage area. Lastly, the fourth
principle focuses on encouraging community identity and ownership through the participatory mapping process. Considerations like Using GIS
technology to visualize different planning scenarios and promote greater awareness, crowdsourcing local people's knowledge with PPGIS and
social media, and increasing participatory activities through explorative meetings and workshops help foster a sense of community involvement
and ownership in the conservation efforts.
Figure 3. The process of identifying the most pertinent strategies in accordance with theoretical principles

6. Discussion
The theoretical foundation and case studies presented in this research underscore the transformative potential of Geographic Information
Systems (GIS) in facilitating the participatory conservation of heritage areas. One of the key lessons learned is the importance of integrating com-
munity values and narratives into heritage management practices. The case studies from diverse geographical contexts illustrate how participatory
mapping processes can effectively capture local knowledge and foster a sense of ownership among stakeholders. This integration not only en-
hances the understanding of heritage values but also informs decision-making processes, ensuring that conservation strategies are aligned with
the needs and aspirations of the community. Furthermore, the findings highlight the necessity of employing a multi-faceted approach that com-
bines spatial data with qualitative insights, thereby enriching the conservation discourse and promoting sustainable practices that resonate with
local identities. On this basis, the role of GIS is to facilitate the inclusion of diverse community voices and perspectives in the decision-making
processes related to heritage management. PPGIS serves as a platform that empowers local stakeholders to actively engage in mapping and
expressing their values, preferences, narratives and concerns regarding heritage resources. By utilizing PPGIS, communities can collaboratively
identify and prioritize heritage sites, assess potential impacts of development, and contribute to the creation of informed conservation strategies

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 European Journal of Geography 2025, 16 (1) ● p. s9

that reflect their unique cultural and historical contexts. Moreover, this integration allows for a more comprehensive analysis of heritage values,
fostering a deeper appreciation of the intangible aspects of cultural heritage.
However, despite the promising applications of PPGIS in heritage conservation, the case studies highlight several shortcomings in their re-
search. A significant limitation is the potential for unequal participation, where certain demographic groups dominate the discourse which skews
the understanding of heritage values. Additionally, reliance on technology can create barriers for individuals lacking access to digital tools or skills.
The time and resource-intensive nature of data collection and analysis can also pose challenges for smaller communities with limited capacities.
Furthermore, the effectiveness of PPGIS can be compromised if community input is not adequately integrated into decision-making processes or
if there is insufficient follow-up on the collected data.

Table3. Presenting the main consideration of case studies in the PPGIS process following the theoretical principles

Principles Considerations
1- Integrating spatial and attribute data through 1-1 Collecting the spatial values and distributing them on the GIS map (Andaroodi &
digital recording of heritage resources Taqipour Anari, 2018)
(Huang, 2024; Mollo et al., 2020; Santos et al., 2023) 1-2 Utilizing georeferenced historical maps to explore the spatial distribution of herit-
age resources (Lafreniere et al., 2019)
1-3 Comparison expert opinions with local people’s place-based memories (Nummi,
2018)
2- Predicting and assessing potential impacts in 2-1 Prioritizing conservation management activities according to potential impacts (An-
heritage areas and providing planning alternatives daroodi & Taqipour Anari, 2018)
(Box, 1999; Brown, 2012; Brown et al., 2022; Huang,
2-2 Creating historical spatial data infrastructure (HSDI) to predict planning's results on
2024)
heritage resources (Lafreniere et al., 2019)
2-3 Identifying key areas that could benefit from improvements or developments,
based on public input (Elgobashi & Elsemary, 2021)
3- Advancing heritage comprehension through the 3-1 Redefinition of heritage values based on various stakeholders' opinion (Andaroodi
identification of heritage values & Taqipour Anari, 2018)
(Brown, 2012; Brown et al., 2022; Knowles, 2016; 3-2 Involving local people in sharing their historical narratives about heritage values
Mollo et al., 2020; Santos et al., 2023) (Lafreniere et al., 2019)
3-3 Identifying the personal experiences of inhabitants through graphic data collection
(García-Esparza & Altaba Tena, 2020)
4- Encouraging community identity and ownership 4-1 Using GIS technology to visualize different planning scenarios and promote greater
through the participatory mapping process awareness (Elgobashi & Elsemary, 2021)
(Brown et al., 2022; Brown & Kyttä, 2014; Poplin, 4-2 Crowdsourcing of local people’s knowledge with PPGIS and social media (Nummi,
2012; Stewart et al., 2008, 2008) 2018)
4-3 Increasing participatory activities through explorative meetings and workshops
(García-Esparza & Altaba Tena, 2020)

7. Conclusions
In conclusion, this study focuses on the pivotal role of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in fostering participatory conservation efforts
in heritage areas. By integrating spatial and attribute data through digital recording of heritage resources, GIS enables a comprehensive under-
standing of heritage values and potential impacts, thereby guiding effective conservation strategies. Through participatory mapping processes,
GIS facilitates community engagement and ownership, ensuring inclusive and sustainable heritage preservation. The evaluation of five case studies
from diverse geographical contexts, objectives, and strategies highlights the effectiveness of GIS in heritage conservation. From Valiasr Street in
Tehran, Iran, to rural areas in Spain, each case study demonstrates the importance of integrating community values, assessing potential impacts,
identifying heritage values, and encouraging community participation. These considerations, rooted in the theoretical framework of the study,
provide a roadmap for leveraging GIS tools effectively in participatory conservation efforts. Moving forward, the findings of this research under-
score the significance of GIS in bridging traditional heritage management practices with contemporary participatory methods. By empowering
stakeholders in decision-making processes and capturing diverse social groups' perspectives on heritage values, GIS enhances inclusivity in heritage
management and supports community-driven initiatives for urban heritage preservation.
Overall, this study contributes to the growing body of literature on the intersection of GIS technology and participatory conservation in
heritage areas. The findings of this research demonstrate that Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are essential for enhancing participatory
conservation efforts in heritage areas by integrating heritage values, facilitating community engagement, guiding effective conservation strategies,
and prioritizing conservation and development measures through participatory mapping and spatial data analysis. In addition to that, the insights
gained from the theoretical framework, case study evaluations, and key considerations provide a robust foundation for future research and prac-
tical applications of GIS in heritage conservation and urban planning. As heritage conservation continues to evolve in the digital age, the role of
GIS in facilitating participatory approaches remains paramount for fostering sustainable and inclusive conservation efforts worldwide. On this
basis, future research could focus on assessing the long-term impacts of GIS-based participatory conservation efforts on heritage areas, exploring
the scalability of GIS technologies in different heritage contexts such as archaeological heritage, industrial heritage, and modern heritage. Also, it
is highly recommended that future research investigates the integration of emerging technologies like AI and VR with GIS in heritage conservation
for innovative community engagement.

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 European Journal of Geography 2025, 16 (1) ● p. s10

Funding: This research received no external funding

Acknowledgment: This research article was submitted to and reviewed by the European Journal of Geography (EJG) and is
based on previous work presented (as a talk or poster) at the Spatial Humanities 2024 Conference, held at Otto-Friedrich
University of Bamberg, Germany, in September 2024. The conference explored the contributions of geospatial technologies,
such as Geographic Information Systems (GIS), to humanities research, showcasing how these technologies, approaches,
and methods expand knowledge within and beyond the digital humanities. We are grateful to the conference organizers
and participants for their valuable discussions, and to the journal's anonymous reviewers for their insightful feedback during
the assessment of the full article.
Data Availability Statement: This research is based on a literature review and publications used for data collection and analysis are described in
the text.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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