Preservation of Urban Heritage and Promotion of Tourism within the Framework of Algerian Law Using GIS. Case Study: Urban Heritage of the Beni Yellman Casbah, M'sila

Abstract

Problem Statement. This study addresses the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with the Algerian legal framework for heritage protection, with a particular focus on Law 03/03 Related to the protection of archaeological sites and areas of tourism development, which includes several and legal and regulatory texts provisions dedicated to safeguarding heritage sites from neglect or encroachment. The case of the Casbah of Beni Yellman in M’sila province – an urban settlement dating back to the 9th century – was selected to demonstrate how spatial technologies can contribute to the documentation and preservation of heritage as well as an attempt to convert legal texts and materials into spatial layers and geographic maps.

The purpose. Algeria boasts a rich urban heritage resulting from the succession of multiple civilizations (Byzantine, Roman, and Islamic) The province of M’sila represents a vivid example of this wealth, particularly through its urban and architectural landmarks such as the Casbah of Beni Yellman, which dates back to the ninth century AD.

This research aims to highlight the importance of using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in protecting and documenting architectural heritage, while promoting tourism by aligning it with Algerian laws related to the protection of urban archaeological sites, particularly Law 03/03.

Research methodology. To map and delineate the boundaries of the Casbah of Beni Yellman, along with its access routes and pathways, the study relied on field surveys that combined Global Positioning System (GPS) Using the Garmin 62 GPS device data with ArcGIS 10.8 for the georeferencing of the site, the definition of its boundaries, access paths, and surrounding buffer zones The analysis revealed the areas most vulnerable to encroachment and provided an evidence-based tool to support local authorities in implementing the provisions of Law 03/03 Especially concerning protected and restricted areas.

The results. The study demonstrated that Geographic Information Systems are an effective tool for safeguarding and documenting architectural and urban heritage. They contribute to the implementation of heritage protection laws under Algerian Law 03/03, particularly in defining the buffer zones specified by the law. GIS also supports decision-making and enhances tourism by linking spatial precision with legal compliance Furthermore, the study confirmed the potential of applying this technology to multiple sites rich in urban, architectural, and natural heritage Where this study can be applied to the other archaeological sites in the Algerian state.