Publications
Applying Hierarchical Analysis Process to Rank Tourist Destinations
A hierarchical analysis reveals that natural sites, particularly Chott El Hodna, and historical landmarks like the Beni Hammad Fort are the most significant tourist attractions in M'sila province, Algeria. These findings, derived from expert interviews using the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), show that natural criteria dominate with 41.9% importance, followed by historical and civilizational factors at 33.8%. The study underscores the need for targeted improvements in these areas to enhance their appeal, while cultural and accessibility aspects, though less prioritized, still require attention. This AHP-based model offers a structured approach to ranking tourist destinations, providing actionable insights for conservation and development efforts.
A systematic analysis of conservation the world archaeological site al Qal’a Bani Hammed in Algeria
A systematic analysis of the UNESCO World Heritage Site Al Qal'a of Beni Hammad in Algeria reveals that integrating technical evaluation with political decision-making can significantly reduce bias in determining archaeological protection perimeters. The study employs Geographic Information System (GIS) and Multiple-Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) to precisely analyze factors controlling the protection area, offering a scientifically grounded alternative to traditional conservation planning. This approach aims to balance theoretical references with practical considerations, ensuring more accurate and objective protection strategies for urban heritage sites.
Modal identification and dynamic analysis of a 1000 years old historic minaret of Kalaa Beni-Hammad
A 1000-year-old historic minaret at UNESCO World Heritage Site Al Qal'a of Beni Hammad exhibits significant material deterioration, with its rubble stone masonry elastic modulus among the lowest recorded for such structures. This finding was derived from a two-stage finite element (FE) model update using modal identification and frequency response function (FRF) correlation techniques, revealing critical stress zones and guiding the proposal of a steel tie retrofit system to enhance seismic performance. The study also highlights the value of these characterization results in expanding the database for historic monuments, offering insights that could inform conservation strategies worldwide.
Ifriqiya and the Central Maghreb
Recent advancements in Islamic archaeology have significantly expanded our understanding of North Africa's historical development, particularly through the study of Ifriqiya and the Central Maghreb. This region, encompassing modern-day Tunisia, Algeria, and western coastal Libya, has seen a surge in archaeological projects since the 1990s, providing substantial evidence that challenges long-standing models. The Qal'a of Beni Hammad in Algeria, one of the earliest Islamic sites excavated by European archaeologists in the late 19th century, stands as a testament to this progress. While the field was dominated by art historians for much of the 20th century, contemporary research now integrates multi-disciplinary approaches to revisit and refine our knowledge of palatial-cities, mosques, ribats, and fortresses, revealing new insights into the region's complex history.
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