Publications
Interior design and furniture in traditional dwellings in the old towns between modernity and preservation of cultural heritage (a special case in the old city of Hebron)
Traditional dwellings in Hebron's Old Town, dating back to the Mamluk and Ottoman periods, face significant challenges due to their outdated spatial designs that no longer meet modern living needs. This study identifies potential solutions to adapt these heritage structures without compromising their cultural value or aesthetics. By analyzing selected dwelling models, it proposes new approaches that balance modernity with preservation, ensuring comfort while maintaining structural integrity and historical authenticity. The research employs an objective analytical methodology, offering insights into sustainable heritage conservation that could be applied globally.
Palestine Hotel in the Old City of Hebron, Between Modernity and Traditional Dwelling Architecture During the 19th-20th Century
A significant shift in Palestinian dwelling architecture occurred between the 19th and 20th centuries, marked by the integration of Western-style modernity with traditional Palestinian elements. The Palestine Hotel in Hebron's Old City exemplifies this transformation, showcasing a hybrid design that reflects the coexistence and mutual influence of these architectural styles. This study identifies pivotal turning points driven by European missions and Zionist migration, which introduced concrete housing and altered traditional building structures. Employing analytical and documentary methodologies, the research underscores the importance of preserving such cultural assets to safeguard civilizational and cultural heritage for future generations.
Palestinian Traditional Architecture and Methods in Designing Dwellings Case Study Old City of Hebron
Traditional Palestinian dwellings in Hebron's historic district, characterized by their agricultural construction and peasant architecture, reveal intricate design elements and materials that reflect the cultural history of Palestine within Islamic civilization. The study identifies key structural and architectural components unique to this vernacular style, distinguishing it from formal Islamic city designs. Through descriptive, analytical, and documentary methods—supported by images and diagrams—the research highlights the critical role of authentic foundations in preserving these dwellings during restoration. It emphasizes the responsibility of society, institutions, and engineers in safeguarding Hebron's traditional architecture, which stands as a vital resource for understanding regional cultural heritage.
Challenges of Maintaining Housing Structures in the Old City of Hebron
Preserving traditional dwellings in UNESCO World Heritage Sites demands balancing structural maintenance with cultural integrity. A study on Hebron’s Old Town reveals that necessary modernizations—such as tile replacements and plumbing upgrades—can be achieved without compromising the essence of these structures, provided preservation principles are rigorously applied. The research highlights significant challenges, including living conditions and the need for adaptive changes while safeguarding structural and cultural elements. It underscores the importance of further studies to define dwelling identities in such sites, ensuring they remain both habitable and true to their heritage. The findings advocate for a nuanced approach that prioritizes preservation without stifling necessary improvements.
The Psychological Wellbeing of Palestinian Children Living among Israeli Settlements in Hebron Old City
Palestinian children living among Israeli settlements in Hebron's Old City exhibit significantly higher levels of psychological distress, particularly posttraumatic stress symptoms and overall mental health problems. A study involving 357 Palestinian children aged 8-18 found that girls and younger adolescents reported the highest scores on both the UCLA-PTSD-Reaction Index and Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. The research, which utilized self-report questionnaires completed by children, mothers, and teachers, highlights the profound impact of prolonged exposure to settlement-related stress on psychological wellbeing. These findings underscore the urgent need for targeted psychological care and support for affected children and their families.
Israeli Settlements in the Old City of Hebron
Israeli settlements in Hebron's Old City have severely disrupted its historical and architectural integrity since 1967. The study reveals that systematic land confiscation, forced closures, and military restrictions have transformed the area into a 'ghost town,' with most streets deserted and shops shuttered. These actions, aimed at Judaizing Palestinian areas, have led to mass deportations and economic collapse, while shifting commercial activity to areas beyond checkpoints. The research underscores the urgent need for preservation efforts that address both architectural heritage and the political pressures hindering rehabilitation.
Classification of Residential Buildings in the Old City of Hebron
Residential buildings in Hebron's Old City exemplify a harmonious integration of architectural design with environmental and social needs, reflecting broader Islamic urban planning principles. These structures feature internal backyards, narrow streets, covered markets, and stone-paved courtyards, designed to optimize privacy, comfort, and collective living for extended families while adhering to Islamic construction rules. The buildings' shared external walls create a protective barrier around the city, providing shade and security. This study highlights how Muslim architects prioritized residents' welfare by adapting designs to local environmental conditions, ensuring both functional and aesthetic cohesion.
Planning and Managing the Preservation of Historical Buildings in the Old City of Hebron Palestine
A critical approach to preserving historical buildings in Hebron's Old Town demonstrates that detailed architectural documentation—including plans, elevations, and sections—is essential for addressing complex challenges during the planning and management of preservation projects. These challenges encompass architectural significance, future use, environmental integration, cost analysis, time constraints, and quality assurance. By leveraging expert-generated documentation, many of these issues can be systematically resolved, ensuring the sustainable transfer of heritage to future generations.
Architectural heritage in the city of Hebron and the rehabilitation of the historical centre
Hebron/Al-Khalil Old Town's architectural heritage, particularly Souq al-wakala, showcases unique regional and historical characteristics that hold significant cultural value in Palestine. A proposed rehabilitation project aims to repurpose the souq into a multifunctional space, including a guest house for the Hebron Rehabilitation Centre (HRC), while adhering to international standards for sustainable urban rehabilitation. The study emphasizes the need to integrate essential services and maintain historical authenticity, ensuring the preservation of this culturally rich site.
A Visit to the Old City of Hebron
A stark contrast emerges between the past and present access to Hebron's Old City, highlighting systemic barriers that have worsened over time. While weekly trips were feasible in the 1980s, current Palestinian movement is severely restricted by Israeli-imposed measures, including tunnels exclusively for Israelis and prolonged delays at military checkpoints like the Container Checkpoint, located along a dangerous route known as Wadi Al Nar. This narrative account underscores the growing isolation of Hebron's Palestinian community due to infrastructure and security policies that disproportionately affect civilians.
World heritage sites, human rights and cultural heritage in Palestine
Protecting cultural heritage in conflict zones, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Hebron/Al-Khalil and Jerusalem, can serve as a powerful tool for preserving national identity and human dignity. This study highlights the positive impact of Palestinian-led conservation efforts despite significant political and social challenges, including repressive measures that affect daily life. By focusing on heritage management practices, community development, and human rights, local organizations in Hebron/Al-Khalil have successfully sustained cultural preservation amid adversity. The research underscores the importance of integrating human rights considerations into heritage conservation strategies to address the complexities of armed conflict.
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