An Interdisciplinary analytical study on the risk preparedness of Bam Reconstruction and its Historical areas

Cultural Properties and Historical areas possess irreplaceable cultural and social significance. However, their resources remain under utilized. Hence they are unable to successfully achieve sustainable development for the benefit of mankind. In addition, catastrophic hazards such as earthquakes, floods and other natural disasters, have posed even greater threats. Many ancient areas which hold long established and entrenched histories and inherited traditions are particularly vulnerable in the event of such disasters. Buildings in these areas are not only being deteriorated but urban infrastructures have not been modernized in order to be able to survive further environmental and industrial threats. However, it is also true that as a result of carefully thought-out traditional methods of disaster reduction, many historic districts with profound heritage have been protected from disasters over hundreds of years. Some historic districts, where the old townscape still remains, exist precisely because they have been prepared and strong against disasters. Indeed, cultural heritage vulnerability in seismic prone regions remains the most significant issue in which countries are faced with. Historic districts and monuments do not only represent the community's' culture, values, traditions, and overall identity, but are also important in regards to social, economic and political aspects.