Ummayyad Palace Preservation Conception

Location:
Samuma, Balis Qasr, Syria
Client:
Princeton University, Islamic Art and Archaeology
Completion:
2006
Subject:
Site preservation, Reconstruction planning for Museum Presentation        
Cooperation:
Prof. Dr. Thomas Leisten, Hans Birk

Location:
Client:
Completion:
Subject:
Cooperation:

Samuma, Balis Qasr, Syria
Princeton University, Islamic Art and Archaeology
2006
Site Preservation, Reconstruction Planning for Museum Presentation        
Prof. Dr. Thomas Leisten, Hans Birk

The Ummayyad Palace of Balis, Balis Qasr, is a unique example for the early period of palace conception with some extraordinarily preserved colored frescoes. Therefore, only specific substantial and appropriate conservation measures, including building reconstruction elements for presentation of the high value frescoes, are to be provided. The concept should demonstrate to visitors the clear square shape of the Palace by the line of surrounding walls of stone blocks and the internal structure of its room organization. The central representative rooms should give a pure impression of Ummayyad Architecture by a reconstruction in traditional mudbrick technology and simultaneously function as an exhibition center to present the restored fresco panels. To the west side adequate conservation techniques should be applied and roof shelter for protection by lightweight construction could be provided. For implementation a competence team of specialists should be established which will be in the position to investigate and exercise on various conservation techniques especially for mud brick construction and fresco restoration to determine finally the best possible way of execution taking into account the local availability of personal abilities and material supply.