appel à répertorier le patrimoine matériel et immatériel en introduisant les nouvelles technologies
Summary of the Conference on Heritage Valuation in Ghardaïa
A recent gathering focused on the enhancement and revitalization of cultural heritage in El-Atteuf, Ghardaïa, emphasized the importance of cataloging and digitizing the region’s tangible and intangible heritage. Participants highlighted the need to employ modern information technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) to preserve and promote these cultural assets.
Key Recommendations
The attendees proposed a collaborative approach involving all relevant stakeholders—government officials, researchers, and local communities—in the preservation of both tangible and intangible heritage, which has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982. They advocated for creating inventories of monuments and cultural assets using new technologies, aiming to leverage these resources as a driving force for local economic development.
Omar Bakelli, an architect and director of a Ghardaïa-based study bureau, remarked that there has been increasing attention from Algerian authorities toward preserving and promoting heritage. He noted that the conference aimed to facilitate the exchange of experiences among various actors to evaluate current preservation, valorization, and restoration efforts while addressing existing shortcomings.
Citizen Involvement
During the discussions, participants called for greater public engagement in safeguarding the region’s rich ancestral legacy, which faces deterioration due to environmental factors and economic challenges faced by local residents. They stressed the importance of adopting practical and scientific mechanisms to protect this invaluable heritage.
Organizers of the conference, which concluded with visits to restoration projects in the M’zab Valley, articulated the goal of uniting officials, researchers, civil society representatives, and citizens. This collaboration is essential to develop strategies aimed at both protecting and considerably enhancing the region’s heritage.
Architectural Significance of Ghardaïa
The Ghardaïa region, known for its remarkable ksour—structures designed in an amphitheater style that blend seamlessly with the rocky landscape—continues to attract researchers and specialists each year. The architectural designs have even inspired notable figures like Le Corbusier.
Held at the Office for the Protection and Promotion of the M’zab Valley (OPVM), this conference coincided with Heritage Month (April 18 – May 18). Its objective was to promote the cultural and architectural significance of the mausoleum of Cheikh Brahim Ben Menad Zenati, a key religious figure who played a pivotal role in social and religious reforms in El-Atteuf.
Virtual Innovation
The event showcased a 3D virtual application of the mausoleum, including a prayer space, which is being recognized as an architectural masterpiece. By utilizing advanced technology, the project aims to bring greater visibility to historical monuments and cultural sites, thereby enhancing community awareness and appreciation.
Overall, the conference underscored the necessity for a concerted effort to conserve the unique heritage of M’zab, utilizing innovative technological solutions along with strong community involvement to ensure its sustainability for future generations.
