In the heart of northern Saudi Arabia, the mud buildings of Rafha stand as an example of traditional architecture, reflecting authenticity, creativity, and cultural identity. These structures tell the story of an ancient past, embodying traditional architectural ingenuity that connects people to the land. The buildings were constructed using indigenous methods and natural materials including … Read more
Archaeologists have unearthed, on a hill overlooking the city of Alès in southeastern France, a Gallo-Roman archaeological site that reveals continuous human occupation between the 2nd and 6th centuries AD. The excavations uncovered remains of dwellings, hydraulic systems, a lavish polychrome mosaic, and a late Roman funerary area. At least four ancient dwellings partially excavated … Read more
The timeless craft of stone building and the use of palm trunks and fronds have revitalized the ancient wells of the Al-Jouf region of Saudi Arabia. These water sources were constructed using natural materials from the environment at no financial cost. Salma’s Well in Sakaka stands out as an educational project for younger generations. It … Read more
“Preserving dry stone walls in buildings is an opportunity to promote Cyprus as a model of sustainable development, strengthen the local economy through the creation of new jobs and keep the island’s cultural heritage alive,” interior ministry secretary Ellikos Elia said. “The technique embodies ingenuity, endurance and harmony with the natural environment.” “In Cyprus, dry … Read more
Dry-stone wallers perform an ancient, essential craft that has enjoyed a renaissance in recent years. From graphic designers to yoga instructors, more and more people are changing careers to learn the skill. In France, artisans now have access to a training school with a state-certified diploma, and public officials are keen to employ them for departmental … Read more
A group of engineers visited a remote mountain village tucked deep into Kashmir’s rural land. They came hoping to learn from what they found, and what they first noticed was an old, broken mud house, abandoned and half-swallowed by wild grass. The roof had caved in. Wooden beams, once solid and proud, were now warped … Read more