L’architecture coloniale à Ain Témouchent : entre conservation et oubli

Abstract

Colonial architectural heritage in Algeria constitutes an integral part of the urban and historical legacy that reflects an important stage in the evolution of Algerian cities during the colonial period. This study focuses on the colonial urban center of Aïn Témouchent as a representative model illustrating the characteristics of urban planning and architecture inherited from the French colonial era. It aims to analyze the formation and evolution of this urban fabric, understand its current condition, and highlight the challenges related to its protection and valorization. The study adopts a multidisciplinary approach combining historical and documentary analysis, urban and architectural approaches, field investigation, as well as spatial and cartographic analysis, in order to diagnose the reality of colonial architectural heritage in Aïn Témouchent and identify the factors contributing to its deterioration. The findings reveal that the colonial center of the city is experiencing gradual deterioration due to several factors, including uncontrolled urban transformations, lack of regular maintenance, unregulated individual interventions, and weak policies aimed at protecting this heritage. Despite these challenges, this urban fabric retains significant historical, architectural, and symbolic value as an essential component of the city’s urban identity and collective memory. Therefore, the study emphasizes the necessity of adopting effective approaches for preserving, rehabilitating, and valorizing this heritage in accordance with the requirements of sustainable urban development.