ABSTRACT

This paper focuses on conservation of vernacular architecture of the old town of Nablus, Palestine. It investigates examples of successful interventions in the historic site which has a large intact urban fabric that suffers from several problems. Lately more concern was directed towards revitalization of the historic core and upgrading of its urban environment. Some conservation projects were adopted to realize the vision of creating a lively historic environment. This paper investigates examples that contributed to enhance the urban environment of the historic city, support its residents and sustain its traditional inherent social, economic and urban qualities. It gives an overview of the conservation work and an assessment of the proposed activities. Lessons are to be learned from experiences that succeeded to preserve old buildings, enrich the vernacular urban environment and ensure preservation of traditional urban image and character.