Seismic vulnerability of vernacular architectural heritage in the Al Haouz region in Morocco
Khalid EL HARROUNI, Hassane KHARMICH, Khadija KARIBI, Khadija BABA, Satwant RIHAL
Abstract. Vernacular architectural heritage in the Al Haouz Region of Morocco faces significant seismic vulnerability. This poses a serious threat to preserving these valuable structures made of local materials including earth, wood, and stone. It is therefore crucial to analyze and assess the seismic vulnerability of these buildings to develop effective strategies for their protection and conservation. The seismic vulnerability of vernacular architectural heritage refers to the susceptibility of these structures to damage or collapse during seismic events. Vernacular architecture, characterized by its use of local materials and traditional building techniques, is particularly vulnerable due to its lack of compliance with modern seismic design codes and standards. This paper explores the seismic vulnerability of these vernacular buildings made of local materials in heritage sites and thus proposes adaptation strategies to improve their seismic resilience. The assessment approach is based on a qualitative method including visual inspections and observations to identify visible signs of deterioration or structural weakness following the Al Haouz earthquake disaster of September 2023. Various factors need to be considered including the quality of construction materials, and the geological and geotechnical characteristics of the Al Haouz region, such as soil type and topography, which play a crucial role in determining the seismic vulnerability of these buildings. The approach then uses the seismic regulatory framework for the seismic protection of earthen buildings. Appropriate measures and sustainable and regulatory practices can be implemented to mitigate seismic risks.
Keywords
Vernacular Architectural Heritage, Seismic Vulnerability, Al Haouz Earthquake, Regulations, Traditional Materials
Published online 1/10/2025, 9 pages
Copyright © 2025 by the author(s)
Published under license by Materials Research Forum LLC., Millersville PA, USA
Citation: Khalid EL HARROUNI, Hassane KHARMICH, Khadija KARIBI, Khadija BABA, Satwant RIHAL, Seismic vulnerability of vernacular architectural heritage in the Al Haouz region in Morocco, Materials Research Proceedings, Vol. 47, pp 242-250, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21741/9781644903391-28
The article was published as article 28 of the book Vernacular Architecture
Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI.
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