Aleppo: A Tangible Heritage

Place-Re-Making: A Cultural-Led Regeneration

Aleppo’s citadel, a landmark of historical significance, holds immense cultural value. However, the area at the foot of this citadel has never fully transformed into a vibrant civic space. This project aims to empower the people of Aleppo to reclaim their cultural identity through placemaking strategies. By removing the Grand Serail, reprogramming the Justice Palace, and adopting the principles of Placemaking, this space is envisioned to become a center for the memorialization of heritage, a place to honor lives lost in the war, and a hub for everyday activities and rituals.

Key Elements of the Regeneration:

1. Placemaking and Exploration:Enriching sensory experiences through design.Supporting physical activities, economic opportunities, and social interactions.
2. Memorialization and Celebration:Heritage pride is reinforced through memorial walls, green spaces, and exhibitions.The site is reimagined to accommodate activities of both remembrance and cultural celebration.
3. Strategic Framework:Modular building designs and vegetation layers for flexibility.Active edges to draw community engagement and circulation.
4. Urban Pocket Design:Incorporating green spaces and cultural nodes.Creating spaces for markets, art, and education.

Implementation Stages:

• Phase 1: Stabilizing the CommunityJob training and advisory functions for restoration.Temporary learning centers and health facilities.
• Phase 2: Shift to CultureEstablishing exhibition spaces, workshops, and cultural clubs.

This honorable mention in "Memory "competition project by Maysa Sarieddine, Shantal Ayoub, and Mariam Dandachi serves as a reminder of how architecture can become a bridge between the past and future. With an emphasis on cultural identity, "Aleppo: A Tangible Heritage" envisions a brighter tomorrow for a city steeped in history.