Cultural Landscapes

Celebrating and preserving landscapes shaped by human and natural history, meaning, and identity.

Cultural landscapes are places where human history and natural environments intersect. These landscapes, from historic parks and urban plazas to sacred sites and vernacular rural places, reflect how people have shaped, and been shaped by, the land over time. Landscape architects help document, preserve, interpret, and design cultural landscapes so they remain living legacies that enrich communities, express heritage, and connect past and present. 

Featured Resources

Woman standing on the shore of a lake Woman standing on the shore of a lake

Historic American Landscapes Survey (HALS)

Document and preserve America’s historic landscapes through measured drawings, photographs, and detailed histories that safeguard cultural and natural heritage.

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Learn About Cultural Landscapes

Deepen your understanding of cultural landscape documentation, interpretation, and stewardship.

Explore cultural landscape learning

In the News

25 Years of the Historic American Landscapes Survey (HALS)

Highlighting how HALS preserves cultural and natural heritage through landscape documentation.

Xochimilco Ecological Park in Mexico City, Mexico Wins Landmark Award from ASLA

Recognizing Xochimilco Ecological Park for its ecological and cultural significance.

Restoring the Glory, the Restoration of Forest Park, St. Louis Wins Landmark Award from ASLA

Exploring the preservation and restoration of landscapes with historical and cultural significance.

Honor and protect landscapes that tell our shared stories.

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