Gene-Syntax Approach to Protection and Planning of the Grand Canal Ancient Town: The Case of Dongpu Ancient Town

Abstract

With the advancement of new urbanization and the success of the Canal heritage application, Canal ancient town as a special type of small town has received increasing attention. This paper looks at Dongpu ancient town's space protection and its organic renewal, and tentatively proposes the Gene-Syntax research approach. First, drawing on Space syntax and its computation software Depthmap, the paper employs axis method to compute the core integration of Dongpu ancient town. This helps to identify the area with the highest degree of core integration in Dongpu ancient town. Second, by reviewing the inheritance principles of the Cultural Genes of Dongpu ancient town, the paper identifies the area with the most 'goodness-of-fit' within Dongpu ancient town. The paper points out the direction of ancient town protection and renewal, and contributes to exploratory research on the cultural rejuvenation of ancient town.