2009 Experts Workshop on Earthen Architecture

In March 2009 the Conservation Institute organized a two-day Experts Workshop on the Study and Conservation of Earthen Architecture in the Mediterranean Region, in Villanovaforru, Sardinia, for professionals with expertise in earthen architecture, construction, and conservation. The workshop, presented in partnership with the School of Architecture at the University of Cagliari in Sardinia, Italy; Escola Superior Gallaecia of Portugal; and CRAterre-ENSAG, and with the generous support of the province of Medio Campidano, was held in conjunction with Mediterra 2009: 1st Mediterranean Conference on Earth Architecture.

The workshop provided a forum to discuss the challenges facing the conservation and management of earthen sites—broadly interpreted to include archaeological sites, vernacular and monumental architecture, as well as cultural landscapes where earth is a predominant feature—and earthen architecture for sustainable development.

The Conservation Institute’s involvement in the workshop facilitated the development of a regional action plan to advance the field in the above-mentioned themes, including a list of priorities for the Mediterranean region based on current trends and resources needed for research, training, and implementation of projects. Further information on the workshop methodology, themes, working sections, and action plan can be found in the workshop's final report, available in the Resources section.