A STUDY OF THE IDENTITY AND CULTURE OF ARAK VILLAGES AND THEIR EFFECTS ON THE CITY

Abstract

Identity is fundamentally constructed upon sources such as language, history, and socio-political or cultural commonalities. When examining culture through the lens of identity, it must be addressed as a primary formative factor manifested through structures like language, values, customs, rituals, and mythology. From both individual and social perspectives, identity and culture are inextricably linked, often reflecting more pristine and profound meanings in rural settings compared to urban life. Furthermore, cultural diversity acts as a catalyst for the emergence of multiple identities. Given the specific characteristics of Markazi Province, the historical heritage of Arak and the Sultanabad Fortress play a significant role in this formative process. This study investigates the case of Arak and its surrounding villages through a combination of archival research and field studies. The findings suggest that these examples of intangible heritage serve as significant assets for rural tourism. By analyzing rural and urban lifestyles and their inherent subcultures, the study elucidates how shifts in lifestyle lead to transformations in collective identity, ultimately playing a critical role in the strategic development of rural tourism.