Rebuilding Aleppo

Abstract

This thesis explores the role of public architecture in the post-war reconstruction of Aleppo, one of the oldest cities in the world, which has suffered great destruction during the war in Syria. The research focuses on how to preserve Aleppo’s urban identity, which is a combination of architecture, spatial organization, materiality, and cultural memory, while addressing the social, economic, and political challenges that the post-war city is facing.

Through a combination of literature review, spatial analysis, and other used methods, the thesis first identifies the elements that define the city, such as the courtyard typology, souks, limestone material, and craftsmanship traditions. It then looks into how the war impacted the city. And it tries to identify what role public architecture can play in preserving Aleppo’s cultural memory and supporting community recovery during times of political instability. The research ends with a design proposal titled Bayt al Madina (“House of the City”), situated on the former place of the Grand Serail, directly south of the Citadel. Once with an authoritive function, the site is reimagined as a hub dedicated to learning, craftsmanship, and community gathering. By translating research insights into design, the project demonstrates how public spaces can serve not only as physical interventions but as tools for cultural and historical continuity, social healing, and urban revitalization.