Message from the Head of the Heritage Department

Dr. Samira HAOUI BEN SAADA

The Institute of Architecture and Urban Planning (IAU) at the University of Blida 1 provides an ideal physical and professional environment dedicated to architectural heritage. The Department of Urban Heritage was established by Executive Decree No. 13-163, dated April 15, 2013, which founded the Institute (Article 2).

The department brings together an elite group of qualified specialists in the field of restoration and rehabilitation of architectural heritage. These professors, who are also practicing restoration experts, are primarily active in the field, supervising restoration projects across the country. The strong socio-professional ties of the IAU and the extensive expertise of its faculty make this recently opened department an ideal academic space for teaching heritage-related professions.

The curriculum focuses on techniques and methods related to managing rehabilitation projects through graduation theses. This training program equips students with the technical and professional skills necessary to master architectural projects, particularly in the context of rehabilitation, renovation, and the sustainability of architectural heritage—from initial assessment to final construction documentation. Furthermore, it introduces students to the principles of scientific research.

Finally, the strength of the education provided by our faculty and researchers, most of whom are practicing architects, stems from a pedagogical approach based on practical experience, bridging the gap between science, technology, and culture.

We warmly welcome our students and wish our educational community continued success. We extend our gratitude to our partners and everyone who has contributed, directly or indirectly, to this achievement, especially the Administration and the Scientific Council of the Institute of Architecture and Urban Planning at Blida 1.