As part of its long-standing efforts to preserve Palestinian cultural identity, Taawon, through its Old Cities Revitalization Program, has launched a specialized training course in heritage conservation and site management. Held in partnership with Al-Quds University and generously supported by the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, the course runs from July 6 through the end of August 2025 and is integrated into the university’s accredited summer curriculum.
Now in its seventh consecutive year, the course is designed to equip young Palestinian architects with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience in conserving historic sites. Thirteen architecture students are taking part in the program, which blends online lectures and in-person workshops with immersive fieldwork.
Participants are working on a real-life case study of a historic structure in Abu Dis and will visit the ancient town of Sebastia to study architectural heritage firsthand. The curriculum covers restoration principles, the evolution of architecture in Palestine, project and risk management, documentation using modern technologies, and techniques for addressing stone deterioration. Students will also prepare traditional mortar and plaster using locally sourced materials and apply them on-site.
Led by a team of four international and four local experts in architectural conservation, the course culminates in the production of a detailed report on the old town of Abu Dis, offering practical recommendations for the preservation and adaptive reuse of its historic buildings.
This initiative reflects Taawon’s broader vision to empower the next generation of professionals while protecting Palestine’s cultural heritage. By investing in youth and fostering specialized skills, Taawon continues to build resilient communities rooted in history, identity, and hope for the future.
