Fringe belt analysis: a method for confirming the establishment of the historical boundaries of Rabat

Fringe belts, extensive low-density areas designated for institutional use, serve as a key morphological element in Rabat's urban landscape, revealing the city's historical boundaries and evolution. This study demonstrates that fringe belt analysis can effectively confirm the Kasbah of Oudayas as the first Islamic urban nucleus in Rabat, addressing the fragmentation concerns raised during its 2012 UNESCO World Heritage nomination. By investigating Rabat's morphological development periods, the research provides a method to understand how fringe belts contribute to identifying historic areas and their cultural significance. This approach offers new perspectives for studying traditional human settlements, aiding practitioners and academics in urban morphology and heritage conservation.

Marques de Sousa Safe, S., & De Alvarenga Pereira Costa, S. (2016). Fringe belt analysis: a method for confirming the establishment of the historical boundaries of Rabat. Acta Universitatis Lodziensis. Folia Geographica Socio-Oeconomica, (25). https://doi.org/10.18778/1508-1117.25.03