Climate factors in the formation of historic settlements in the arid zone of the Niddle East: a systematic analysis and principles of adaptation (the Old Damascus case study)

   In the context of global climate change and the growing interest in energy-efficient architectural solutions, the study of the historical experience of traditional settlements is becoming increasingly relevant.

   Purpose: Identification of patterns in the morphological formation of historic settlements in arid regions under the influence of climatic factors and systematization of principles of their architectural and climatic adaptation.

   Methodology/approach: Using Old Damascus as a case study, this research examines the planning structure, spatial composition, and architectural construction technologies that facilitate passive cooling, regulation of insolation and wind patterns, and utilization of thermal mass of materials. The study is based on a comprehensive methodology, including historical-genetic, comparative typological, and cartographic analysis.

   Research findings: Particular attention is paid to the interrelation between the social stratification of the society and typology of residential buildings. This approach reveals an invariant set of climatic elements mandatory for all segments of the population, as well as its variability determined by social status. Five generalized principles of adaptive architecture in the arid belt are formulated: the hierarchy of public and private space, compactness and maximization of shading, the use of thermal mass of materials, multi-level natural ventilation and evaporative cooling, and the socio-functional differentiation of climatic solutions.

   Practical implications: The results obtained can be applied in the design of sustainable settlements in modern arid regions, including the southern territories of Russia, as well as in the restoration and museumification of historical and architectural heritage sites.

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