A proposal for the use of Core and Buffer Zones to protect the heritage of the Cyrenean landscapes

Recent decades have seen unprecedented destruction to the ancient landscapes of Cyrene, Libya, threatening its UNESCO World Heritage status. Urban expansion, demographic pressure, and unsustainable resource exploitation have accelerated damage, overwhelming local heritage protection efforts. To address this crisis, researchers propose a strategic framework using core and buffer zones to safeguard Cyrene's archaeological integrity. Building on prior studies documenting necropolis degradation since 2011, the proposal outlines a collaborative approach involving the Department of Antiquities (DoA), UNESCO, and academic institutions like the University of Chieti. The study combines field assessments with policy recommendations, aiming to mitigate encroachment while preserving Cyrene's unique historical landscape for future generations.

Menozzi, O., Cherstich, L., Di Valerio, E., Di Antonio, M. G., & Abdalrahim Shariff Saad, A. (2019). A proposal for the use of Core and Buffer Zones to protect the heritage of the Cyrenean landscapes. Libyan Studies, 50, 107–135. https://doi.org/10.1017/lis.2019.23