The Traditional Arabic House. Its Historical Roots

Abstract

The Arabic courtyard house has been physically and symbolically adjusted to serve two inseparable functions. Firstly, as a shelter (MA-AWA), providing the inhabitants with proper protection from unfavourable outside conditions (climate). Secondly, as a habitat (MASKAN), in which the inhabitants may comfortably satisfy their physical and emotional requirements (culture).

Although this type of house has, to a large extent, been architecturally stamped with Islamic culture, its roots in fact go back into antiquity.

The aim of this paper is to trace the origins of the Arabic house and its subsequent development throughout the history of Syria.