Spatial patterns and transformations of traditional farmsteads: A case study of Vojvodina Province, Serbia

Traditional farmsteads are essential patterns of rural landscapes, reflecting long-term cultural and economic transformations. This study focuses on a traditional farmstead type – sala š, in Vojvodina Province, Serbia, aiming to identify and describe historical and contemporary forms, focusing on their development, distribution, concentration and transformation, since the 18^th century until today. The methodology combines historical literature review and map analysis with field surveys and geospatial analyses. The broader case study covers Vojvodina, with Čenej as a reference area for spatial analysis. Results show a peak in farmstead number and density during the interwar period, followed by a decline due to socio-economic changes and urbanisation. Spatial analysis revealed that proximity to urban centres and roads supports activity, while fragmentation near motorways contributed to abandonment. The study proposes a typology of four historical and five contemporary farmstead types based on structure, land use, function, and vegetation traces, reflecting distinct phases of transformation. These findings provide a framework for interpreting landscape changes and underline the importance of recognising traditional farmsteads as part of rural heritage and cultural identity.