IN-PERSON ISTANBUL HERITAGE(S)

Abstract

Over the past five decades, Medina has experienced profound urban and architectural transformations, largely driven by the expansion of the Prophet’s Mosque and the rapid growth of religious tourism. While these interventions have addressed functional, safety, and infrastructural demands, this rapid process has also raised critical concerns regarding heritage conservation, authenticity, and historical continuity. In line with Saudi Vision 2030, the conservation of architectural heritage has therefore become essential for safeguarding cultural heritage while responding to contemporary urban and tourism pressures. This paper analyses selected historic buildings in Medina before and after major interventions, with a specific focus on restoration practices in relation to the seismic behaviour of historic load-bearing masonry structures. A comparative perspective is introduced through the Italian experience, examined as a paradigmatic case for understanding the evolution of approaches to seismic safety in architectural conservation. The study explores how, from the post-Second World War period to the present, Italian conservation practice has progressively shifted from invasive strengthening techniques toward more compatible, reversible, and knowledge-based interventions. This growing awareness has been gradually incorporated into the regulatory framework, shaping current principles and guidelines for interventions on historic masonry buildings in seismic areas. Methodologically, the research combines archival research, field surveys, systematic photographic documentation, and comparative analysis of conservation and seismic retrofit practices in Italy and Saudi Arabia. By contrasting tourism-driven transformations in Medina with Italy’s evolving conservation framework, the paper proposes methodological criteria for balancing structural safety, functional requirements, and the safeguarding of architectural heritage in rapidly transforming sacred cities.