Local Cultures – Global Spaces
Abstract
This paper explores how to enhance the user experience in the exploration of the archaeological site of the Castle of Machaerus (Mkawer Castle) in Madaba Governorate, to highlight its importance in religious tourism in Jordan. The paper starts by introduction of the site, its narrative history, and the lack of knowledge, accessibility and facilities in the place to encourage tourism. The second stage focuses on the role of the interpretation center to reveal the narrative history and its relativity in the religious history of the place, the impact of the narrative history on site selection, and the spatial experience in the architecture of the interpretation center. It focuses on the dramatic potential to stimulate the investment of the visitor’s emotional experience with the Citadel of Machaerus, using explanatory glimpses. The final phase illustrates how the users’ journey to the citadel enhances their emotional connection through the proposed architectural solutions, that satisfy the visitors’ needs and compliment them. Moreover, the proposed solution can be useful in economic development in the region through tourism.
B.Sc in Architecture, 1982, M.Sc. in Architectural Design, Housing & planning, 1987. P.H.D. in Housing Design and planning, in the urban context. The thesis entitled “Change in the Concept of Space and Place in Housing Environment within Islamic Ideology”, 1999.University of Baghdad, College of Engineering. Department of Architecture. Academic experience at the University of Baghdad 1987-2006, and at the University of Petra from 2006 to date, Dean of the Faculty of Architecture and Design for eight years, in addition to other responsibilities. Supervisor of graduate studies.
BSc. Architecture, University of Petra, 2023, intern architect in a private architectural firm.