Eighth International Conference on The Constructed Environment

Abstract

In the center of greater Cairo, lies a fringe zone that acts as a host for a mixture between life and death. The MAQABER area or cemeteries have a unique pattern of being a host to poor and informal residents practicing their daily activities among cemeteries and tombs, in addition, contain a group of the most historical monuments in Egypt and the world generally. Although the area has been, for a long time, a subject for projects and development studies focusing on how the living conditions continue deteriorating, life remains in existence in this area. Even the title “City of the dead” and over simple initiatives can be an effective and efficient start to achieving a self-sustaining livable community. This area is considered one of the richest and most complicated urban fabrics all over the world that could be re-planned as a sustainable heritage urban settlement. Since the beginning of the Caliphate era, the zone has witnessed continuous expansion and growth rates. The objective of this research is to create a self-sustaining community that restores the ancient life for its historical value and provides basic living standards with a productive sustainable urban settlement in the middle of one of the biggest cemeteries in the world.