Preserving cultural landscapes: an integrated framework for the conservation and sustainable development of Mang Thit Pottery Village, Vietnam

Abstract

Mang Thit Pottery Village (Vinh Long Province) is a river-based cultural landscape shaped by clustered linear ensembles of kiln-drying yard-house/workshop-wharf along the Co Chien River. Using qualitative spatial analysis, VES, semi-structured interviews, and document review, this study (i) identifies the village’s operational spatial logic and (ii) translates it into an implementable conservation-planning agenda. Findings show that production, household life, and river logistics co-depend on riparian microclimates and short walking links to wharves; protecting kiln structures alone is therefore insufficient. We synthesise these results into the HLE framework (Heritage-Livelihood-Ecology), which treats heritage assets, social-spatial practices embedded in the landscape, and riverine ecology as one operational system. This framework underpins an integrated heritage-based planning model with four components: heritage continuity, experiential tourism, participatory development, and smart technology. Rather than converting Mang Thit into a display-oriented “heritage park,” the paper recommends recalibrating planning toward a living heritage corridor that keeps production in situ, maintains water access, and manages visitor loads by cluster. Priority actions include establishing 30–50 m riparian buffers with access easements, designating cluster-based conservation districts, and monitoring operational indicators. The proposed approach demonstrates how Mang Thit can move beyond architectural preservation toward sustainable cultural landscape conservation, aligning identity, livelihoods, and ecology over time.