القطاعات المحفوظة في الجزائر

Abstract EN

In order to protect the ancient urban fabric from extinction and destruction, and to balance the safeguarding of the ancient architectural heritage and the modern life requirements, the Algerian legislator has set-up an updating mechanism in the form of safeguarded sectors.

This translates into the classification of the urban fabric as an ancient historical city of unique beauty that evokes the human brilliance in its tiniest details.

It must be acknowledged that interest in the urban and rural real estate groups in Algeria was delayed by the public authorities that did not enact regulatory texts clarifying the procedures of creating safeguarded sectors and provide them with the permanent safeguarding and presentation plan until the year 2003.

This centralized decision making approach has not help in creating the safeguarded sectors.

On the contrary, it has become a requirement to adopt a decentralized decision making approach along with involving local institutions and associations as well as activating the role of ancient buildings' owners and occupiers in order to protect this part of the heritage.

Also, the Algerian legislator has not set-up deterrent mechanisms that would oblige building owners and occupiers to apply the law concerning maintenance and restoration.

The author believes that time has come to consider this part of heritage as a critical source of sustainable development and a key economic driver based on the cultural richness made available by ancient cities.