Navigating the Intersection of Geology and Architecture

Navigating the Intersection of Geology and Architecture. The conceptualization of the cave churches in Pustec as the convergence of geo-morphic agents

Abstract
The research examines the intersection between geology and architecture in the Pustec and Prespa region, where ancient geological formations converge with rich cultural heritage. Central to this study is Prespa Lake, whose geology significantly influences the surrounding landscape and human- built structures. The interplay between geological forms and cultural monuments creates a unique dualism, where natural landscapes and human activities coalesce seamlessly. Historically, figures like Ruskin and Charles Smith have explored the potential of geology to inform architecture beyond mere engineering concerns, suggesting a deeper, creative integration. Ruskin viewed geology as more than a technical science, proposing that it could inspire architectural design through its intrinsic understanding of the earth’s history and processes. Charles Smith, a Victorian geologist and stonemason, furthered this idea by positing that geological formations narrate the earth's past. Building on these historical insights, the research employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining geological mapping together with cultural heritage mapping. This methodology includes both qualitative analyses (such as visual interpretations of layered maps) and quantitative methods using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to analyze spatial relationships. By superimposing cultural heritage maps onto enhanced geological maps, the study reveals significant patterns, particularly the concentration of heritage sites on ancient geological layers. This suggests that older geological formations provided stable and strategic locations for human settlement and construction, highlighting the importance of geological context in cultural heritage preservation. A detailed case study of the Maligrad cave church exemplifies the integration of natural and built environments. Located within a karst landscape on Maligrad Island, the church embodies Alonso’s "Material-Event," where architecture and geology converge. The karst formations, characterized by limestone and natural caves, create a dynamic backdrop for the church, which has been meticulously adapted to fit the natural contours of the cave. This integration reflects a deliberate effort to harmonize human design with geological features, showcasing architecture as a mediator between human creativity and geological forces. The findings advocate for a broader acknowledgment of geology’s role in architectural and cultural heritage studies, suggesting that an integrated perspective enriches our understanding of historical human-environment interactions and guides future conservation efforts. This approach, embracing both scientific and humanistic dimensions, underscores the deep symbiosis between the earth’s physical history and the cultural legacy it supports.