The Management of Classified Saharan Palaces Between Protection Needs and Sustainability Considerations: An Archaeological Management Perspective

Abstract

Classified Saharan ksour constitute a fundamental component of the cultural and architectural heritage of desert regions, reflecting centuries of social organization, environmental adaptation, and vernacular construction techniques. Despite their historical and symbolic value, these heritage complexes face increasing threats resulting from environmental degradation, demographic changes, inadequate management practices, and the pressures of modernization. This study examines the functional role of classified Saharan ksour within the dual framework of heritage protection requirements and sustainability imperatives, adopting an archaeological management perspective that integrates conservation, use, and long-term viability.

The research adopts an analytical and interpretive approach, combining heritage management theory with archaeological principles to assess existing protection mechanisms and their limitations in ensuring sustainable preservation. It argues that effective management of Saharan ksour must transcend purely legal or technical conservation measures and instead embrace a holistic model that accounts for social participation, economic valorization, environmental resilience, and institutional coordination. The study further highlights the importance of adaptive reuse and sustainable tourism as strategic tools capable of reconciling heritage protection with local development needs.

Ultimately, this paper proposes an integrated archaeological management framework that positions classified ksour not as static monuments, but as living cultural landscapes whose sustainability depends on balanced governance, community involvement, and context-sensitive conservation strategies.