Identical Preservation and Its Implications for the Evolution of Maghrebi Medinas: A Study of Constantine’s Old Town in Eastern Algeria

Résumé

The medinas of the Maghreb represent intricate urban entities deeply embedded within complex historical, geographical, and political trajectories. Frequently marginalized within contemporary urban frameworks, these historical districts, exemplified by the old city of Constantine, embody profound architectural and cultural significance that transcends conventional preservation paradigms. Current heritage conservation approaches predominantly employ standardized methodological interventions that systematically neglect the contextual nuances and unique morphological characteristics intrinsic to each medina. Our research employs a comprehensive methodological framework integrating comparative historical analysis and extensive ethnographic field investigations to interrogate the multifaceted dynamics of urban transformation. The findings reveal that colonial-era urban interventions and standardized preservation paradigms have precipitated substantial structural and socio-cultural transformations, fundamentally altering the developmental trajectories of these historic urban landscapes. The intrinsic economic potential and remarkable diversity of attributes exhibited by Maghrebi medinas necessitate a sophisticated, context-sensitive conservation strategy. Traditional homogeneous preservation approaches are demonstrably inadequate for addressing the complex spatial, social, and cultural dimensions of these urban environments. Instead, a nuanced, adaptive methodology is imperative, simultaneously safeguarding distinctive heritage values while facilitating meaningful integration within contemporary urban ecosystems. By prioritizing contextual specificity and recognizing the dynamic nature of urban heritage, this research advocates for a more nuanced approach to Medina conservation. Such a paradigm shift would not only preserve architectural and cultural integrity but also support the sustainable revitalization of these historically significant urban spaces.