Vernacular architecture in Macedonia and Serbia: a comparative study

Abstract

Vernacular architecture is an important segment of a cultural identity of the Balkan Peninsula. This study enables understanding of common types of vernacular architecture by comparing construction, function, and forms in rural areas in Macedonia and Serbia. The main aim is to identify similarities in vernacular rural dwellings dated from the 19th and beginning of the 20th century. The research employs a mixed-method approach, particularly the exploratory sequential design in terms of gathering data, analyzing and generalizing qualitative findings. Moreover, it applies comparative, historic and morphology methods over the evolution of various forms of housing in the Balkan Peninsula. The study was conducted in the rural areas dispersed over Macedonia and the southern part of Serbia. The concluding remarks point to a presence of similar constructive, spatial and typological forms of vernacular architecture, generally being related to the local natural environment, ethnic characteristics and traditional understanding of construction. This paper contributes to the limited academic work on this issue, along with its practical significance for posing findings, suggestions, and recommendations for preserving the Balkans architectural heritage and embedding it in the contemporary forms of rural tourism.