Participants emphasized the importance of continuous monitoring, preventive protection, and periodic maintenance of historical buildings in the Arab region.
The International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property and its regional center in Sharjah recently concluded a training course titled "Structural Conservation of Built Heritage." The course lasted three weeks and attracted over 200 participants, including experts, specialists, and individuals interested in preserving cultural heritage in the Arab region and beyond.
Dr. Ayman Harzallah, a structural and seismic design expert from the Grucci Foundation in Italy, co-instructed the course. He has extensive experience reinforcing and restoring historical, artistic, and archaeological buildings. Dr. Marwan Al-Heib, a project manager, educator, and researcher at the University of Lorraine in France, also co-instructed the course. Dr. Al-Heib brings over 41 years of practical experience in structural engineering and risk assessment.
In the first part of the course, lecturers reviewed the components and methodologies related to structural conservation projects. They discussed construction techniques and materials, providing a theoretical introduction to architectural construction. Additional topics covered included investigation and examination, structural analysis, and temporary and permanent reinforcement methods.
The lectures also addressed the impact of earthquakes on historical buildings and the associated risks. They emphasized the necessity of conducting accurate and scientific analyses of sites using available technologies, both traditional and advanced, such as laser scanning and structural modeling. Moreover, the importance of understanding structural engineering principles, the effects of wind and earthquake forces, and the characteristics of traditional building materials was highlighted.
The lecturers reviewed techniques developed by ancient civilizations for creating stable and earthquake-resistant structures. They focused on reinforcement and restoration processes by examining case studies from multiple projects addressing different structural problems. These projects included mosques, churches, houses, towers, domes, and more, spanning from archaeological and historic buildings to contemporary structures built with modern materials.
In the second part of the course, the lecturers concentrated on risk assessment related explicitly to archaeological and structural facilities. They emphasized the significance of diagnosing and evaluating building conditions and the severe consequences of building fires. The discussions highlighted the dangers of neglecting maintenance and the impact of improper building interventions.
Key risk factors were identified, including earthquakes, landslides, misuse, and incorrect renovations. Examples from various sites were presented, showcasing the damage's causes and potential implications. Particular attention was given to the emergency reinforcement of historic buildings, underlining the necessity of proactive measures to protect these vital structures.
The training course concluded with in-depth discussions on key topics, including building structural analysis, construction materials' behavior, and identifying potential weaknesses and cracks. Participants engaged in a thorough review of questions raised throughout the training sessions.
Significant emphasis was placed on continuous monitoring and preventive and periodic maintenance of historic buildings in the Arab region. Attendees highlighted the necessity of selecting appropriate materials for restoration and reinforcement efforts. They stressed the importance of adhering to the minimum necessary intervention limits and opting for reversible interventions whenever possible.
Additionally, the discussions underscored the need to prioritize safety considerations for both facilities and individuals. Proper planning and accurate implementation emerged as crucial elements in ensuring the integrity and longevity of the structures discussed.
Architect Anwar Sabik, the course manager and Programme Officer for Training and Field Projects at the ICCROM Regional Centre in Sharjah, emphasized the importance of the course topics. He highlighted the lecturers' extensive experience in managing projects to support and restore simple and complex historical buildings.
Additionally, he underlines the effectiveness of transferring knowledge to participants through such training activities. "This initiative is part of the training and capacity-building program at the ICCROM Regional Centre in Sharjah, which aims to support and enhance skills and expertise in the Arab region," he said.
Architect Sabik emphasized that hosting the course online significantly increased access for interested Arabic speakers from all geographical locations within the Arab region and beyond. This format mainly benefits individuals who face challenges in traveling. He highlighted the importance of the questions and discussions raised by participants during the course, noting their relevance to the subject matter.
Sabik stated, "This course begins a series of specialized training programs. We are committed to organizing these sessions successively online, alongside complementary in-person offerings, covering a range of topics pertinent to professionals and specialists in cultural heritage conservation and restoration."
