The Uniqueness of Erbil Citadel Buffer Zone as Compared to the General Theory of Buffer Zones

Abstract

ABSTRACT: Buffer Zone is a concept introduced in the literature of heritage conservation as an important tool for conservation of artifacts or sites inscribed on the World Heritage List. It is based on the argument that the context surrounding the artifact is an essential component of its conservation strategy. The changes made and the interventions pursued on the environment may have a direct impact on the quality of World Heritage Site itself. Buffer Zones which may not be in themselves of exceptional world value are intended to protect those sites from the negative influences of their contexts. Based on these arguments, the definition of a Buffer Zone for Erbil Citadel and the introduction of specific regulations for this area were the conditions to add Erbil Citadel to the World Heritage List in July 2014. Adaptive Re-Use was recognized and adopted as a principal strategy in the revitalization of Erbil Citadel and its Buffer Zone. The current research intends to focus on Erbil Citadel Buffer Zone. It aims at defining and evaluating a particular way of approaching this area within the framework of the general theory of buffer zones surrounding World Heritage Sites. This is to be made in relation to the strategy of Adaptive Re-Use adopted for revitalization processes. The method consists of the following stages: 1. Introducing the general theory of Buffer Zones surrounding World Heritage Sites by reviewing theoretical statements about the concept of buffer zones and its applications within various professional practices in different world contexts. 2. Analyzing and evaluating Erbil Citadel Buffer Zone with a focus on the potentials of adaptive re-use as a protection strategy. 3. Defining the uniqueness of Erbil Citadel Buffer Zone and the implications of this for the adaptive re-use of this zone.