Spatial morphological characteristics of traditional settlements: A comparative study along the Miaojiang Border Wall and Miaojiang Corridor in Hunan, China

This study aims to address the issue of existing research predominantly focusing on macro-level analysis of traditional settlement spaces while lacking comprehensive multi-level analysis. Through field surveys, literature analysis, and the use of ArcGIS tools, this study conducts quantitative analysis of the spatial characteristics of settlements along the Miaojiang Border Wall and the Miaojiang Corridor in Western Hunan from macro, meso, and micro perspectives. The results indicate that, at the macro level, the average spatial coefficient of variation (Cv) of settlements in both regions exceeds 64 %, with the settlements surrounding the Miaojiang Border Wall being particularly prominent. At the meso level, both regions exhibit high spatial compactness and significant boundary complexity. Notably, large settlements near the Miaojiang Border Wall typically display clustered or finger-like development patterns, while the settlements along the Miaojiang Corridor predominantly exhibit linear development patterns. At the micro level, the average building density (Dave) of settlements along the Miaojiang Corridor is 29.70, lower than the 40.56 observed in border wall settlements, indicating a denser distribution of building nodes. This study provides scientific evidence for relevant authorities to formulate targeted protection strategies for traditional settlements and offers theoretical support for cultural route planning and heritage tourism development, thereby promoting the sustainable development of cultural heritage.