摘要：One of the key issues of modern architecture and urban development is the decline of urban life in small towns and settlements, which are experiencing the negative consequences of the new socioeconomic reality. The urbanization process, characterized by rising large cities and mega-cities is provided by an increasing influx of migration from small historical cities and settlements. However, small urban settlements, preserving features of historical architecture, natural attraction and provincial coziness are important factors in restraining the uncontrolled growth of mega-cities and as a condition for the preservation of local culture and traditions of sustainable ecological balance of the regional settlement system. Obviously, the issue of integrated development of small historical settlements is coming to the fore. To solve this problem the authors propose a cluster approach that effectively develops the architectural environment of such cities and creates attractive living and tourism environments. The purpose of the research is to develop a method of the cluster approach for sustainable development of small historical towns and settlements, aimed at a comprehensive transformation of their architectural environment while preserving of valuable historical, cultural and architectural heritage. The limitation of the research is the Republic of Tatarstan.
