Historic and traditional urban centers in Jordan: the physical transformation of texture and landscape

Ref.: 9
Key theme: 01 Physical integrity of historic urban landscapes
Date of reception: 23/11/2008

AUTHORS (*Main author)

ABU AL HAIJA, Ahmed * (Jordan) - Philadelphia University

ABSTRACT

Traditionally, the richness of Jordan consists of its past and recent history; ancient civilizations left their testimonial traces in several parts: Dead Sea, Petra, Jerasa, Um Kais, etc.
Nowadays Jordan is still important because of its geopolitical position in the Middle East, in relation with the Palestinian and Iraqi questions, and economic due to its strong relationship with Saudi Arabia and Arab Gulf Region.
The rapid urban development due, essentially, to the modern economic models has caused deep transformation of the historic agglomerations texture and urban landscape. Local territorial laws and building regulations had contributed positively and negatively in the process of transformation.
This research analyses some Jordanian historic centers studying most important phases of their transformation from urban, landscape and Architecture point of view.
The main objective of this research is to evaluate the relationship between traditional and modern approach, with particular attention at planning methodology and building techniques.
The structure of this research is developed analyzing also the urban transformation impact on behavior of the local community and physical integrity of historic center, the landscape transformation effect in relation with climate and environmental condition, the sustainability of new built environment, taking into consideration land cost, building density, public and standard services, etc.
In conclusion, the recommendations regard the importance of introducing the sustainable concept in Jordanian planning strategy and physical historic urban conservation. It includes guidelines of intervention methodology and building regulation, with particular attention at: colors chromatic rules, shape, volumes, heights, morphology, aspects, cohesions, sustainable materials (insulation, energy saving, maintenance, etc.).

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