Tradition and Sustainability in Vernacular Architecture of Southeast Morocco

Vernacular earthen architecture in southeastern Morocco, exemplified by the ksar (ksour), demonstrates exceptional sustainability and traditional resilience. A decade-long study of 103 ksour across the Outat valley, High Atlas mountains, and Mdagra oasis reveals their adaptive design, integrating social, functional, defensive, productive, and constructional features that harmonize with the environment. This research provides a typological classification of these structures, highlighting their role in environmentally respectful habitation and their potential for heritage conservation. The findings underscore the importance of valuing such vernacular heritage to ensure its preservation for future generations.

Gil-Piqueras, T., & Rodríguez-Navarro, P. (2021). Tradition and Sustainability in Vernacular Architecture of Southeast Morocco. Sustainability, 13(2), 684. https://doi.org/10.3390/su13020684