Ghadames, Libya. A traditional earthen settlement, resilient to crises and environmental challenges

Abstract

[EN] Ghadames, a World Heritage property, is an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, representative of a traditional culture and human interaction with its environment. The old town has a symbiotic relationship with its surrounding oasis. Its earthen housing design is extremely original and climatically adapted. Serious human and environmental challenges increased recently. The community of Ghadames has however always been, responsible for the exceptional qualities of this site, from its inception to its conservation. An active local convenient authority was purposefully set up for conservation. Fortunately, the present crisis in Libya only caused indirect damage. . Our paper aims at better inform about Ghadames little known heritage features, encountered challenges and conservation achievements. Through this particular case study, our multi-faceted paper aims to demonstrate how a comprehensive approach, in construction, architecture, urbanism, landscaping, irrigation, climate, law and institutions, is important for understanding and planning conservation issues.