Courtyards as passive climate buffers: Enhancing thermal comfort and preventive conservation in mediterranean climates

Mediterranean courtyards, such as the Courtyard of the Maidens in Seville's Royal Alcázar, act as passive climate buffers that moderate extreme temperatures and reduce reliance on active cooling systems. A three-year study (2020–2023) found these spaces improve thermal comfort for users while minimizing environmental stress on heritage materials like plasterwork, particularly during heatwaves. The research underscores the role of courtyards in preventive conservation and sustainability, offering a model for integrating historic architectural features into climate-resilient urban planning.

Torres-González, M., Rodríguez-Antuña, L., Bienvenido-Huertas, D., Alducin-Ochoa, J. M., León-Muñoz, M., & Rubio-Bellido, C. (2025). Courtyards as passive climate buffers: Enhancing thermal comfort and preventive conservation in mediterranean climates. Energy and Buildings, 336, 115496. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enbuild.2025.115496