Urban Planning Potential of the Dalma Gardens: Integration of Nature, History, and Contemporary Culture

Urban Planning Potential of the Dalma Gardens: Integration of Nature, History, and Contemporary Culture

Authors

  • Mariam Avagyan National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia
  • Diana Amiryan National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia
  • Satenik Simonyan National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia
  • Kristine Sahakyan National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54338/18294200-2026.1-01

Keywords:

Dalma Gardens, historical and cultural reserve-museum, Yerevanian lich, sustainable urban development

Abstract

Urban green spaces are a critical component for creating a healthy and sustainable urban environment, contributing to microclimate regulation, biodiversity conservation, and the improvement of residents’ quality of life. According to Yerevan’s development plans, green areas cover approximately 30% of the city’s total land area. However, analysis of official data indicates that the actual amount of public green space per capita is significantly lower than reported. Based on our calculations, public green space per capita amounted to 5,02 m² in 2019 and declined to 4,4 m² in 2023. In this context, the preservation of remaining green fragments is of particular importance, with the Dalma Gardens representing a key component. This study examines the historical development, spatial transformations, and the ecological, cultural, and archaeological significance of the Dalma Gardens. From the original area of approximately 790 ha, only around 230 ha have survived to the present day, holding substantial potential for stabilizing Yerevan’s microclimate, supporting biodiversity, and restoring urban ecosystems. The study proposes granting the Dalma Gardens the status of a state-protected historical and cultural reserve-museum, while implementing nature-based restoration approaches. These include the reintroduction of native plant species, the development of rainwater management systems, and the promotion of ecotourism. The proposed innovative measures may contribute to the sustainable development of Yerevan, the preservation of green spaces, and the mitigation of urban environmental challenges.

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Author Biographies

Mariam Avagyan, National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia

doctor of philosophy (PhD) in Biology, Associate Professor (RA, Yerevan) - NUACA, Department of Environmental Management, Service and Tourism

Diana Amiryan, National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia

(RA, Yerevan) - NUACA,  Department of Environmental Management, Service and Tourism, bachelo

Satenik Simonyan, National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia

(RA, Yerevan) - NUACA, Department of Environmental Management, Service and Tourism, bachelor

Kristine Sahakyan, National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia

doctor of philosophy (PhD) in Engineering, Associate Professor (RA, Yerevan)- NUACA, Department of Environmental Management, Service and Tourism

Published

2026-06-11

How to Cite

Avagyan, M., Amiryan, D., Simonyan, S., & Sahakyan, K. (2026). Urban Planning Potential of the Dalma Gardens: Integration of Nature, History, and Contemporary Culture. Scientific Papers of National University of Architecture and Construction of Armenia, 94(1), 3–15. https://doi.org/10.54338/18294200-2026.1-01

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