Spatial distribution characteristics and influencing factors of defensive traditional villages in the Taihang Mountain Area

This study, based on 399 Defensive Traditional Villages (DTV), integrates tools such as Optimal Parameter Geographical Detector (OPGD) and Multi-Scale Geographically Weighted Regression Model (MGWR), alongside natural, social, and cultural factors, to construct a research framework. The study explores the spatial distribution characteristics and influencing mechanisms of Defensive Traditional Villages in the Taihang Mountains area (DTVTMA). The results show that (1) DTVTMA shows a clustered “multi-core, belt-shaped” distribution with a “following the terrain of the mountains, settling near water sources, and building in strategic locations” layout. (2) In terms of single-factor influence, natural factors have the greatest impact, followed by cultural and social factors. (3) The spatial distribution of DTVTMA is the result of interacting natural, social, and cultural factors, reflecting the traditional society’s systematic response to the environment. In the future, sustainable development of these villages can be achieved through differentiated protection, optimized facilities, and dynamic strategies.