Designation of Architectural Heritage for Sustainable Conservation of old Towns In Ethiopia: the Case of Enda Medhane Alem area adwa, Tigray
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Date
2022-04-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The objective of this research is to study Adwa’s old town Enda Medhane Alem area architectural heritage and sustainable conservation approaches; specifically Answering two questions of ‘what is the architectural heritage value of Enda Medhane Alem area?’ and ‘what are the approaches to sustainably conserve the area?’ In the twenty-first century era of globalization, cities are progressively competing with one another both nationally and internationally. Modernization forces cities in to similarity in terms of finance, information technology and most importantly in patterns of urban development, and architecture. Urban and architectural heritage is the main aspect which always differentiates them. Adwa with a potential to provide us with an insight into the 17th century Ethiopiantown is currently under threat of massive urban renewal and modernization. Based on a multidimensional analysis of the heritage value the thesis identifies approaches for better benefits obtained in the development process. Critical review of the representative sampled buildings, encourages viability of the proposed recommendation. The thesis concludes; connecting cultural heritage with environmental, social and economic sustainability critically aware of the heritage value and impact of adaptive re-use. Approaches with the intent to safeguard cultural heritage and alternative heritage friendly economic endeavors are needed in order to sustain the pressure from economic interests surrounding the case area. The study extends to recommending benefits using cultural heritage as an asset in tourism development resulting in economic revitalization. The work is based on a theoretical overview of international conventions relevant to architectural heritage and best practice to cultural heritage with respect to influences of change and development.
Key Words: Architectural Heritage and Sustainable Conservation