REVIEW AND ANALYSIS 33 eastern and western ends of the central passage and a third on the southern side. Its linear layout features shops flanking a central vaulted corridor, interrupted by four domes with oculi. Originally built mainly from finely dressed local limestone, with brick domes and basalt pavements, the structure uses minimal timber, mostly for shop lintels. Limestone ashlar forms the walls and pendentives, while the interior walls and vaults are made of roughly hewn stone covered in lime-based plaster. Structural cores are filled with rubble bound in mortar and the domes comprise brick blocks finished with plaster traditionally treated with a boiled soap and water mixture to protect against weathering. As a key connector in the historic commercial core, its revival was seen as essential for stimulating economic recovery and encouraging residents to return. Led by the AKTC and local expertise, the project focused on restoring a 150-metre section of the souk, encompassing 52 shops. Using historical building information modelling (HBIM), AKTC developed a phased restoration plan consisting of passage restoration, infrastructure upgrades, roof repairs, two model shop restorations and electrical installations. Original features were preserved where possible while damaged sections were rebuilt using traditional methods. Shop facades were standardised with wooden shutters and basalt thresholds, and interiors were adapted to function, offering cladding options suited to various uses. Modern utilities were discreetly integrated and the drainage system was fully renewed. Local materials were used where feasible. Completed in 11 months and within a US$450,000 budget, the project restored 33 shops, 11 of which received financial aid. A maintenance manual produced through comprehensive reporting remains limited. The project earned international recognition, receiving the ICCROMSharjah Award for Best Practice in Cultural Heritage Conservation and Management in the Arab region. AKTC later extended restoration to Souk Khan al-Harir (silk market) and Souk al-Hibal (ropes market) though work was halted in early 2025 due to renewed political instability. Markets connected to Souk al-Saqatiyya after the area was cleared of rebels, remain in a devastated condition. (Photo: Mariam Hammouda, 2022) The dome of Souk al-Saqatiyya in Old Aleppo following repair and reconstruction (Photo: Mariam Hammouda, 2022) OUTCOMES, COMMUNITY RESPONSE AND LESSONS LEARNED Though Souk al-Saqatiyya’s architectural restoration succeeded in preserving its structural and visual integrity, full social and economic revitalisation remains limited. While the connection to other restored souks, such as Souk al-Hibal, is strong the surrounding area is still under restoration or remains in ruins. Visitor numbers have not rebounded, trade volumes remain low and the cultural activities that once animated the space have yet to fully return. Many shopkeepers face financial challenges and the absence of consistent foot traffic continues to hinder recovery. Grassroots initiatives have nonetheless emerged. Some residents are reopening shops amid rubble, cleaning streets and hosting educational tours to reconnect younger generations with their heritage. Public response has been mixed. A 2021 local survey revealed that while some residents viewed the project as a hopeful first step, others questioned the prioritisation of a moderately damaged site over more severely affected areas. Technical critiques, ranging from plastered vaults and standardised shopfronts to visible solar units, have also surfaced, reflecting deeper concerns around authenticity and aesthetic choices. A broader 2024 survey of 1,600 Aleppines revealed strong pride in the city’s heritage and near-universal opposition to its destruction. However, most respondents prioritised urgent needs such as security, basic services and employment over heritage reconstruction. While there is broad support for rebuilding, many favour modern, usable spaces over strict historical replication and advocate for projects that reflect community needs and values. These findings point to the need for more inclusive, transparent and context-sensitive heritage recovery strategies. Insufficient public
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