The Sustainability of the Urban Landscape and Its Impact on Architectural Identity in Major Algerian Cities the Case of the Ancient Border Town of Tebessa

1. Introduction

Today, the world is witnessing rapid growth in urban populations, placing enormous pressure on the urban environment and causing challenges related to the urban and cultural identity of cities. Many cities, especially the major ones, suffer from the repercussions of rapid and unregulated urban expansion, which has led to sharp disparities in their urban forms. In this context, urban planning emerges as an important science in shaping urban spaces from an urban perspective, in addition to a functional perspective.

In this regard, the issue of urban sustainability and its impact on urban identity in Tebessa is highly complicated, closely linked to the history, current structure, and urban dynamics of this city with its multiple cultural and architectural layers.

The border town “Tebessa” has a rich history, formerly known as Theveste. It boasts a remarkable historical and archaeological heritage, particularly its historic centre, which is fortified by a Byzantine wall nine to ten meters high and surrounded by four main gates marking the symbolic and functional entrances to the heart of the old town. This ancient urban layout, with its walls and its monumental gates such as the Constantine Gate and the Caracalla Gate, largely shapes the city’s urban landscape, where the physical coexistence of European architecture in the western part and Islamic architecture in the eastern and northern sectors creates a spatial diversity that shapes the city’s urban identity while posing challenges of visual and functional harmony.

Figure 1. This is a figure. Triumphal Arch of Caracalla in Tébessa – Theveste.

Figure 1. This is a figure. Triumphal Arch of Caracalla in Tébessa – Theveste.

The city’s urban landscape, therefore, reflects its urban form, playing on the dynamic balance between continuity and rupture. The harmony of the landscape depends on the ability to integrate different architectural and functional components harmoniously, thus creating an urban environment in which identity reflects historical memory and current socio-economic realities. The presence of historic neighbourhoods with their stone walls and gates framing public spaces, squares and places of worship contributes to a strong urban identity which is enriched by the diversity of built styles and uses that emphasize Tebessa’s uniqueness on the strategic border axis, where it plays a key role in regional development and trade. [1]

Urban harmony is a fundamental issue for the sustainable development of cities, particularly in Tebessa, where the specific urban form contributes to creating a sense of identity through the aesthetic and functional cohesion of urban spaces. This is influenced by various factors, including building layout, the quality of public spaces, and the interaction between natural and built elements. However, in Tebessa, this harmony is often disrupted by rapid urbanization, creating an imbalance between preserving historical characteristics and meeting the contemporary needs of the population. Thus, the issue of urban harmony arises in terms of striking a balance between development needs and the promotion of cultural heritage.

The urban layout of Tebessa, in addition to its rich history, plays a decisive role in establishing this harmony. The city developed around Roman ruins and enjoys architectural diversity that bears witness to the different eras it has experienced. However, uncontrolled and chaotic urban growth, exacerbated by rural-to-urban migration, has created obvious tensions in the urban landscape.

This has resulted in urban overcrowding and the creation of informal settlements on the outskirts, which undermine urban cohesion and local identity. These settlements lead to challenges in terms of integration into the urban fabric and respect for the city’s identity.

At the same time, the identity dimension of Tebessa plays a major role in the perception of urban harmony, highlighting the historical and cultural richness of places, which are often imbued with deep meaning for the city’s inhabitants. The various names of places evoke important events or historical figures, contributing to the construction of a collective identity and the promotion of urban heritage.

In this context, taking identity elements into account in the planning process is essential to maintain continuity between the past and the present, thereby promoting urban harmony that respects the cultural roots of the city [2].

2. Materials and Methods

2.1. Study Area

Tébessa or Tbessa (in Arabic: تبسة; in Tamazight: Tibest or Tebest) is a city in Algeria, capital of a wilaya, located in the east of the country, between the Aurès massif and the Algerian-Tunisian border. The city dates back to ancient times, when it was called Thevest, Frenchified as Théveste. It has an important historical and archaeological heritage, particularly in its medina, which is still surrounded by a Byzantine wall. Tébessa occupies a strategic position in the far east of Algeria. It is a crossroads city on the border of the desert and Tunisia, the terminus of major transportation routes, and constitutes a transit point between the interior and exterior of the country on one hand, and between the Tell and the Sahara on the other.

Tébessa covers an area of 13,878 square kilometers and is naturally connected, generally speaking, to the High Plateaus zone and partially to the country’s vast steppe expanse. It serves as the capital of the wilaya, which administers 28 communes.

Its geographical position at the center of the wilaya is remarkable from every point of view: its proximity to the border and its location on an important hub of communication routes (north-south and east-west). It is bordered:

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To the North: by the commune of Boulhef Dyr;

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To the South: by the commune of El Malabiod;

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To the East: by the commune of Bekaria;

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To the West: by the communes of Bir Mokkadem and El Hammamet.

Figure 1. This is a figure of the geographical situation of Tébessa city- Algeria.

Figure 1. This is a figure of the geographical situation of Tébessa city- Algeria.

2.2. Conceptual Aspects of the Topic

2.2.1. Urban Form:

Urban form refers to the physical characteristics that comprise built-up areas, including the shape, size, density, and composition of settlements. This relates to urban morphology, the study of the form, creation, and development of human settlements, which are subject to a range of physical and human factors. The focus is on spatial structure and organisation. Natural factors influence the form and morphology of settlements. For example, valleys, coastlines, and mountains can limit urban growth in certain directions while promoting development in others by providing transport, communications infrastructure, and natural resources. Human factors include political decisions and economic factors, such as land prices [3].

‘Urban form is a fundamental aspect of the built environment as it shapes the recipient’s perception of it. The recipient’s understanding of form is important to their perception of the city as a whole, which consists of overlapping forms. Urban form is also defined as the relationship between built or vacant space, also known as voids or appendages, and it is considered one of the major elements of urban development and production. It plays a key role in the study of spatial organization and in determining the city’s overall appearance, which reflects the inhabitants’ standard of living’ [4].

Urban form is also defined as ‘a spatial language that expresses the distribution of the elements that make up urban space according to geometric principles (axis, layout, grid, shape, etc.)’ [5].

2.2.2. Elements of Urban Form:

Urban form encompasses a variety of physical and non-physical characteristics, such as size, shape, scale, density, land use, building types, the layout of urban blocks, and the distribution of green spaces. According to Dempsey, these characteristics can be classified into five interrelated elements that constitute a city’s urban form [6].

Density:

Urban density is simply the ratio of a statistical indicator to surface area. These include:

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Residential density (dwellings per hectare)

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Population density (inhabitants/hectare);

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Employment density (jobs per hectare) [7].

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Housing and building type.

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Transport infrastructure

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Land use

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Layout.

2.2.3. The Concept of Urban Form:

Urban form is a complex, multidimensional concept, its definition varies depending on the context and the author’s perspective.

Based on these definitions, urban form can be conceptualized not only as a structure and shape, but also as a dynamic system that brings together the interactions of the city and combines multiple dimensions, including:

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Physical (material) elements, such as density and layout.

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Non-physical (intangible) elements, including various social, historical, cultural, and aesthetic aspects. [8]

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Functional elements, such as accessibility and land use, show how the city works in terms of work and interaction.

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All these elements continuously develop over time.

2.2.4. Urban Landscape:

This term refers to the physical and social structure of a city. It is made up of several elements, including buildings, streets, public spaces and human interactions [8].

“It is part of the city’s overall shape, with the sum of the scenes creating this shape. From this perspective, we can say that the landscape is created from the viewer’s perspective and depends on their experience. It is affected by the viewer’s position and distance. The closer we get, the more details appear in one area, but other parts of the landscape disappear” [9,10].

“The urban scene also represents the integrated vision of the city’s components’ visual and sensory effects, formed through style, treatment, and spatial and mass interconnections. These vary depending on the community’s nature. It is the result of the relationships between buildings and urban spaces, and between the buildings themselves, representing what the man’s eye sees, perceives, and interacts with in the urban environment.” [11]

It is also the visual appearance and arrangement of space for built and green infrastructures, whether viewed from above or as a complete visual display of how architectural components come together. This often reflects the lifestyle of the people who create and use the space. [12]

2.2.5. Types of Urban Scene:

An urban scene refers to the physical and social environment that makes up a city, including the spatial and functional elements and relationships that shape its identity. These scenes can be categorised based on their functions, physical form, or cultural and social context. The most prominent types of urban scene are as follows:

2.2.6. Residential Urban Scene

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This includes residential areas of various levels.

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May take the form of apartment buildings, villas, informal settlements or planned housing units.

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It is characterised by an internal road network, parks, schools and basic services.

1. Commercial Urban Scene:

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It includes commercial areas such as markets, shopping centres and malls.

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It is characterised by high traffic density, as well as shops, offices, hotels and restaurants.

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It is usually close to urban centres or major transport hubs.

2. Administrative/civic scene:

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It includes government buildings, ministries, municipalities, courts and public facilities.

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It is considered a symbol of authority, characterised by organisation and architectural prestige.

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Often located in the heart of the city or in other strategic locations.

3. Industrial urban scene:

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It includes factories, warehouses and storage and manufacturing facilities.

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It is characterised by large spaces, chimneys, heavy equipment and industrial transport networks.

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Often located outside residential areas to avoid pollution.

4. Cultural and recreational scene:

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This includes theatres, museums, public parks, clubs and sports grounds.

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It reflects the cultural values of society and enhances quality of life.

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It is used as a social space and for mass gatherings.

5. Historical Heritage Scene:

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It includes old buildings, markets, traditional neighbourhoods and historic temples and mosques.

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It expresses the city’s cultural and historical identity.

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It requires protection and development regarding the preservation of the architectural style.

6. Mixed-use urban scene:

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It combines more than one type of use (e.g., residential, commercial or administrative) in the same area.

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It helps to reduce daily commutes and enhance urban vitality.

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Example: modern neighbourhoods with commercial centres and residential buildings above.

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Informal or popular urban scene:

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It consists of unauthorised extensions that are not always subject to urban planning.

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It sometimes lacks basic services, but it represents economic and social vitality and diversity.

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It requires development intervention and environmental improvement.

7. Smart Urban Scene:

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This scene has emerged as a result of technological development, with smart systems being used to manage the city.

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It includes smart lighting, smart transport systems, digital services and CCTV.

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It focuses on efficiency, sustainability and the citizen experience. [13]

2.3. Methodology for Analysing the Urban Landscape:

The methodology varies according to a number of global trends, and there are bodies and authorities which determine this. Users of the urban description methodology are encouraged to collaborate in order to understand the natural characteristics and distinctive features of the urban landscape, according to a number of elements that contribute to its formation. The most important of these elements are:

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Land use, block and street pattern, age, blocks and scale, building density.

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Traffic lanes for regular vehicles, street proportions and containment, skyline and rooftop scenery.

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Visible historical elements, their surroundings, environmental landmarks and external urban spaces.

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The character of building materials and boundaries.

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The scale and distribution of open spaces, and the relationships between building forms.

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The arrangement and orientation of elements, view angles, visual sequences, landmarks and gateways. [14]

2.3.1. Harmony of the Urban Landscape:

In major Algerian cities, the urban landscape is highly complex and interdependent; its cohesion and harmony are influenced by a variety of architectural, environmental, and cultural characteristics, which include spatial organisation, building size, the use of materials, vegetation cover, and the design of public spaces. When these features are carefully integrated, they contribute to creating a pleasant aesthetic atmosphere and enhancing the well-being of residents and visitors alike. However, when these values are absent, the urban landscape becomes disrupted.

2.3.2. Urban Design Identity:

The urban design identity of a city is deemed a complex and dynamic phenomenon, shaped by the profound interaction between people and place. Identity encompasses more than just the physical form of a city (buildings, streets, building materials and colours), but also an expression of culture, traditions, collective memory, and sensory and psychological experiences of its inhabitants.

2.4. Key Themes:

2.4.1. Uniqueness and Distinctiveness

Urban identity makes a city unique and distinguishes it from others through its physical environment, which reflects the culture and history of its community.

This distinction is not limited to the visual aspect; it also encompasses the emotional and symbolic significance the city holds for its inhabitants, shaped by their sensory and mental perception of its various elements.

The reciprocal relationship between man and city:

Man built and shaped the city, and in turn, the city shapes them emotionally, intellectually, and behaviourally.

The city bears heritage, incubates memories, translates aspirations, and reflects the values and extent of civilisation’s development or backwardness.

2.4.2. Identity Is a Changing Phenomenon:

Urban identity is not static; it is constantly evolving over time through interaction between individuals, groups, and elements of the urban environment.

It cannot be imposed by administrative decisions, but cultural and social factors can be harnessed to promote a renewed urban awareness that keeps pace with the times while preserving privacy.

2.5. Mental Image and Architectural Identity:

Cities with a clear mental image in the minds of their residents and visitors, such as distinctive landmarks or public spaces, have a strong urban identity.

Architectural identity, including building style, design, and details, is an essential component in shaping the overall urban identity.

The urban design identity of a city is a dynamic product of both physical environment and intangible aspects, such as memory, feelings, and culture. It is not static, but grows and changes alongside society, reflecting its identity, values, and aspirations. In order to achieve this effectively, cultural and social awareness must be promoted beyond physical planning and official decisions.

2.5.1. Urban Identity:

Urban identity is essentially a combination of different components that give a city its unique character. It is about understanding what makes a city different from others, giving it a distinctive character and special aura.

2.5.2. The Term ‘Urban Identity’:

Studies linking identity to the surrounding urban environment began in the 1960s in the field of environmental psychology [15]. The term ‘urban identity’ first appeared in urban planning in the United States, coined by Jacob J. Jakob [16]and K. Lynche. Since then, it has permeated the fields of urban economics, geography, planning, political science, environmental psychology, and sociology. [17]. [18]

2.5.3. Components of Urban Identity:

‘Urban identity has received considerable attention from many architects and urban planners, who have proposed different definitions from distinct perspectives. All definitions emphasise that a unique combination of factors distinguishes one city from another’. [19]

These factors include physical structure, social life, culture, emotional aspects, memory, natural elements, and climate. [20]

Furthermore, the importance of historical and archaeological features in shaping urban identity cannot be denied [21]. Cities with such features often have a unique identity, and preserving them is essential for maintaining this identity.

2.5.4. The Nonphysical Dimension:

The interaction of individuals, their relationships, and their activities play an important role in defining a city’s identity, as a city’s meaning varies according to the social, cultural, and historical values of its inhabitants. [22]

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Cultural activities: They reflect the meanings and values of society, including social relations, special traditions, and public activities, and serve as vital indicators of the city’s identity. 23

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Religious beliefs and activities: The prevailing religions and religious practices also contribute to shaping the external features of urban identity.

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Urban symbolic content: This refers to the symbolic importance and perceived meanings of spaces within the city, which vary according to individual and collective interpretations.

The impact of urban identity on urban development and its effects on society:

There is a close relationship between identity and urban development.

In its physical and nonphysical forms, identity contributes to the techniques, methods, and materials used in construction, which directly affect the pattern and results of urban development. Society can influence urban development, which reflects its characteristics and values as people add their personalities, customs and beliefs to the environment.

The level of science, knowledge, customs, and traditions contributes to the establishment of norms and the achievement of urban harmony, while beliefs and religion influence the use of architectural elements with specific symbolic meanings and decorations. [24]

‘Urbanisation can also influence society and be a tool for its growth and development. It can also be a means of preserving the characteristics and distinctiveness of societies, or of changing their structure.’ [25].

3. Results

3.1. Fieldwork Protocol:

3.2. Introduction to the Neighbourhoods Studied:

In order to study the role of urban elements in creating a harmonious urban landscape and their impact on urban identity, we identified three neighbourhoods (an upmarket neighbourhood, a mixed neighbourhood and a neighbourhood in the city centre), which we defined as follows:

3.2.1. Cheikh L’Arbi Tebessi (Skanska Neighbourhood):

This mixed neighbourhood combines different types of housing, including individual and collective housing, and is located north of National Road No. 10 at POS 03. It is bordered to the north by Fatima Al-Zahra neighbourhood and to the south by the Jabel Al-Jorf neighbourhood. It combines individual housing (allotments), collective housing, semi-collective housing, and various types of traditional and contemporary housing. It has recently gained importance as it attracts residents from all areas of the city, especially for trade.

3.2.2. Downtown Neighbourhood (Thevest):

The oldest neighbourhood in the city, representing its core and historical centre, and a rich reference to the city’s traditional and original urban character. It also represents land use plan POS 01 and is surrounded by land use plans 13, 14, 15 to the north, 18 to the south, 17 to the east, and 02 to the west. It is enclosed by three structural axes: the Martyrs’ Street axis, the Colonel Mohamed Cherif axis and the railway axis.

3.2.3. The Khaman Hussein Neighbourhood, Also Known as Quartier Bourgeois:

This upmarket neighbourhood is located on National Road 16 between the Oued Naqis (Dhraa Al Imam) neighbourhood and the Route d’Annaba neighbourhood. It is one of the most prestigious residential neighbourhoods in Tebessa and enjoys a high status.

Figure 2. This is a figure Study area neighborhoods map.

Figure 2. This is a figure Study area neighborhoods map.

3.4. Field Survey:

Data collection is a key step in scientific research. In this research, we primarily rely on field surveys to address the proposed problem.

Conducting field interviews with stakeholders from several sectors and groups in the city is an important way to gather first-hand information about the city’s reality and the sustainability of its urban landscape, and to obtain a comprehensive view. These may include:

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Local officials, such as those responsible for urban planning, the environment, transport, and the municipality.

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Urban planning experts and architects, who can provide technical and professional insights.

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Community representatives, such as non-governmental organisations, environmental associations, and local associations.

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Business owners and property developers, who can offer an economic and developmental perspective.

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Academics and researchers in the fields of sustainability and urban development.

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-City residents representing diverse age groups and social backgrounds were also involved to understand the impact of sustainability on their daily lives.

We formulated open-ended, non-leading interview questions to encourage participants to provide detailed narrative responses.

3.5. Documentation Tools:

The following documentation tools were identified for use:

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Written notes: Recording key points during the interview.

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Audio recording: With the participants’ consent, this allows you to focus on the conversation without worrying about taking notes.

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Photography: After having the permission, you can take general photos of the site to link the data to the reality on the ground.

We practised active listening and asked follow-up questions.

We listened attentively to the answers, avoiding interrupting the speaker. This allowed participants to express their opinions freely during short, focused interviews lasting no more than 20 minutes, thereby avoiding fatigue.

We remained as neutral as possible and refrained from expressing our own opinions. We respected the participants’ time, cultural boundaries, and privacy.

The findings were documented, analysed, and transformed into actionable insights.

The post-interview phase is just as important as the preparation and implementation phases, as the true value of the collected data is extracted during this phase.

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Immediately after the interview, we took focused notes and summarised the key points.

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Sphinx Quali was chosen as a tool for creating the survey template, and the results of the open-ended questions were analysed using a word cloud method.

4. Discussion:

4.1. Analysis of Open-Ended Interview Questions Using ‘Quali Sphinx’:

In an age of ever-expanding data and opinions expressed across the web and social media, processing qualitative data, regardless of its source, has become essential. This includes open-ended survey questions, interviews, focus groups, press articles, institutional databases, website excerpts and forum comments. Sphinx Quali enables users to import and analyse these data sets. [26]

4.2. Possible Content Analyses

4.2.1. There Are Several Types of Analysis, Including:

1. Lexical analysis:

This analysis focuses on the words themselves. It identifies the set of words in the text through a lexical process that includes spelling correction. This enables users to quickly grasp and document the essence of the text. The analysis allows:

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identifying key words in their written form (frequency count and number of occurrences), as well as compound words;

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differentiating words according to their grammatical category (nouns, verbs, adjectives, etc.);

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measuring word frequency;

Highlighting words by colour or categorising quotations by context or author characteristics (such as gender).

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It can divide responses into sentences or paragraphs.

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Grouping words and forming custom dictionaries.

2. Semantic analysis:

Lexical analysis can be supplemented with semantic analysis, which focuses primarily on understanding content to:

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Identify the topics in the text and the main concepts at a level of detail chosen by the user.

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Form semantic fields.

3. Automatic sentiment analysis:

Sentiment analysis and classification of responses according to feeling and direction, which is extremely useful neurolinguistic programming that makes it possible to:

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Identify the direction of the body and the positive and negative opinions and feelings expressed.

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Mark positive or negative opinions with colours.

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Identify passages that express an opinion thanks to self-expression markers.

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Determine the equivalence or direction of the opinion through the lexical fields of positive and negative opinions.

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Extract the overall direction of the analysed section (rhetorical aggregation or majority algorithm).

4. Content analysis

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Create a single or multi-network code book, i.e., classify and code the data.

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Control the coding of the body by size or content.

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Collect and tag large excerpts.

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Choose the level of the thesaurus for the analysis.

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Check the stability of the vision coding for the elements already coded.

5. Word cloud

A word cloud is an excellent way to organise the results of an open-ended question visually. It provides a graphical representation of the most frequently occurring words or topics in respondents’ answers to an open-ended survey question.

The principle behind a word cloud is based on a text analysis method that highlights the keywords used most frequently within a text segment. Word clouds are also known as tag clouds.

4.3. Why Do We Use a Word Cloud to Analyse Survey Responses?

They are a powerful and intuitive method of text analysis that adds simplicity and clarity.

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It highlights the most frequently used keywords in a visually appealing way.

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Word clouds are effective communication tools that are easy to understand and share, and have a high impact.

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It is more visually engaging than a spreadsheet filled with text.

We analysed the first open-ended question1 which focused on the characteristics of Tebessa’s urban form:

“What improvements would you suggest for urban façades to promote sustainability in the neighbourhoods of Tebessa?”

The interpretation of the word cloud reflects the findings of the public survey on proposed improvements to urban façades in respondents’ neighbourhoods. The open question allowed participants to freely express their opinions, criticisms, ideas and suggestions regarding urban façades in their areas.

4.3.1. Steps to Create a Word Cloud:

The first step in the data processing stage is to generate a lexicon, a list of all the words used in the responses. Next, the frequency of these terms/ words is calculated, and the results are displayed as a word cloud in descending order. The observations (e.g., sentences, responses, and notes) are grouped into homogeneous categories according to the keywords and concepts they contain. The sizes of these categories are indicated in the top right-hand corners of the boxes. Each word cloud generated for a given category displays word sizes in proportion to their frequency.

The results of the Alceste procedure reveal a semantic classification of the vocabulary, showing layers of words and concepts.

We created a word cloud representing the most frequent and common words using the Sphinx Quali software.

Figure 3. This is a figure. provides a comprehensive summary of lexical and semantic aspects, highlighting the meanings and implications associated with these words.

Figure 3. This is a figure. provides a comprehensive summary of lexical and semantic aspects, highlighting the meanings and implications associated with these words.

4.3.2. Word Cloud Analysis:

Through the lexical and semantic synthesis of the word cloud, based on responses from the sample in the three neighbourhoods regarding urban form, we can conclude that these elements are important to respondents’ opinions.

Notably, the most prominent and frequent words are ‘façades’, ‘buildings’, and ‘urban’, alongside references to green spaces and public areas. Secondary themes include style, colour, and cleanliness. [27]

This suggests that respondents’ views largely focus on the urban form and its role in ensuring visual harmony in the urban landscape, with a particular emphasis on building façades and green spaces as key components.

These concepts can be examined through the following key elements:

Façades: This aspect is reflected in several points:

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Giving façades the attention and significance they deserve.

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Completing, refining, and maintaining the façades of older buildings.

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Adhering to a unified architectural style.

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Standardising the external appearance and colours of buildings.

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Limiting arbitrary alterations to façades.

These observations indicate a lack of sufficient attention to the buildings’ façades, despite the strong relationship between the latter and the urban form. Indeed, giving due importance to façades has a positive impact on the overall urban form, which in turn enhances the coherence and aesthetic quality of the urban landscape.

Buildings: This concept is broader than façades, suggesting that most respondents believe buildings require comprehensive improvement.

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Improving the overall urban form.

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Incorporating distinctive architectural and decorative features.

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Defining an architectural style for each type of activity (economic, commercial, cultural, etc.).

Urbanity: This term is used more generally to reflect respondents’ focus on the overall urban framework of the city and their call for a comprehensive urban redevelopment, including:

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Reducing the commercial use of pavements and public squares.

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Increasing attention to green spaces and their expansion.

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Improving roads and related infrastructure.

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Bettering waste collection and disposal.

The Open-ended Question 2, on the Impact of Urban Form and Cityscape on Urban and Architectural Identity and their Sustainability in the City of Tebessa:

What steps should be taken to strengthen and preserve the urban identity of your city?

Figure 4. This is a figure. Comprehensive synthesis analysis describing the most frequently discussed and recurring themes in responses to Open-ended Question2.

Figure 4. This is a figure. Comprehensive synthesis analysis describing the most frequently discussed and recurring themes in responses to Open-ended Question2.

4.4. Word Cloud Analysis

Through the lexical and semantic synthesis illustrated in the word cloud, which represents the responses of participants from the three neighbourhoods of Tebessa regarding urban identity, it is particularly noticeable that the most frequently occurring and prominent words are “urban” and “buildings.” [28]

This prevalence reflects their significance in shaping the city’s identity. To a lesser extent, terms such as “spaces,” “heritage,” and “landmarks” also appear, indicating that the participants’ perceptions revolve around the idea that urban identity is primarily associated with the built environment, landmarks, and the historical dimension of the city.

4.5. Urbanity and Buildings:

Urbanity and buildings are interrelated concepts. Urbanity encompasses all that pertains to cities and urban areas—how they function as cohesive systems, including their architecture—while buildings represent the fundamental physical components that form the urban fabric. These include aspects of functionality, architectural design, and spatial coherence, all of which collectively shape the city’s identity through harmonious design and public spaces that create a distinctive visual character for Tebessa.

5.6. Landmarks and Historical Aspects:

They play a crucial role in preserving the city’s identity. and serve as tangible manifestations of past civilisations—for instance, the Roman ruins that reflect the Roman period, and the Byzantine wall symbolising the Byzantine era. Such elements help connect residents with their history, strengthen their sense of belonging, and distinguish Tebessa from other cities.

Figure 5. This is a figure. Comprehensive synthesis analysis of the thematic distribution for Open-ended Question 2.

Figure 5. This is a figure. Comprehensive synthesis analysis of the thematic distribution for Open-ended Question 2.

4.7. Thematic Analysis

As illustrated in the figure above, which presents the thematic distribution of respondents’ answers regarding urban identity, the residents of Tebessa expressed differing views depending on their individual perspectives on the measures they deem most important for enhancing the city’s identity. These perspectives reveal varying priorities and interpretations of how urban identity can be strengthened and preserved:

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The first category: The city as a whole and its historical dimension are considered the most important aspects in strengthening its identity.

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The second category: Buildings.

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The third category: Urbanism and green spaces.

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The fourth category: Buildings and the city’s identity.

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The fifth category: The historical aspect and landmarks.

4.9. Analysis of Some Urban Scenes in the City of Tebessa Through Direct Observation or Photographic Documentation:

Analysing the urban landscape through field observation or photographic documentation is an essential process for understanding contemporary cities and their evolving dynamics. Field observation provides direct sensory engagement with the environment, revealing subtle details and behavioural patterns that shape the identity of a place. In contrast, photographic analysis offers a broader perspective, enhanced by artificial intelligence and computer vision technologies, allowing for the tracking of temporal changes and the examination of patterns across larger spatial scales. Combining these two methods enables a comprehensive and in-depth understanding that integrates both qualitative and quantitative data, thereby supporting sustainable urban planning, policy development, and the preservation of the city’s cultural heritage. [29]

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Urban landscape analysis is a comprehensive process that aims to understand urban environments by examining their physical, social, and economic elements.

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Field observation: Immersing in the heart of the city.

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Field observation is a fundamental approach to urban landscape analysis, offering researchers the opportunity for direct and sensory interaction with the urban environment. This method allows to collect rich qualitative data and understand subtle dynamics that may not be captured through photographs or maps.

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Photographs, including satellite imagery, provide a wide and multidimensional perspective, enabling advanced analysis through artificial intelligence techniques that detect patterns and changes.

Urban landscape analysis is a systematic process that aims to understand and evaluate the urban environment in all its dimensions. The urban landscape is defined as the visual and spatial image shaped by cities, resulting from the continuous interaction between human activity and the physical environment. This includes buildings, streets, green spaces, infrastructure, as well as the social and economic activities that occur within these spaces. Urban landscape analysis is a vital tool for urban planners, architects, and sociologists, as it offers deep insights into how cities function and how they influence their inhabitants. Such analysis can be carried out through two main approaches: direct field observation and photographic analysis. [30]

1. 

The Urban Landscape

The urban landscape is a complex concept that encompasses both the tangible and intangible aspects of a city. It is not merely a collection of buildings and streets, but rather a living fabric that reflects the city’s history, culture, economy, and social identity. This landscape is continuously evolving and shaped by numerous factors, including urban planning, demographic changes, technological developments, and environmental conditions.

2. 

Key Elements of the Urban Landscape

The urban landscape consists of a wide range of interrelated elements that form the urban environment. These elements can be classified as follows:

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Physical elements: These include buildings (their styles, heights, and construction materials), streets, squares, parks, and bridges. They also include infrastructure such as transport networks, lighting systems, and utility installations.

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Functional elements: These relate to how urban spaces are used, including residential, commercial, industrial, entertainment, and institutional areas. The distribution of these functions greatly influences the city’s dynamics.

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Human and social elements: These cover population density, the movement of people and vehicles, daily activities, social interactions, and cultural expressions such as public art and festivals.

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Aesthetic elements: These concern the visual appearance of the city, including colours, shapes, architectural compositions, and the aesthetics of open spaces.

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Environmental elements: These include green areas, water bodies, natural topography, and air quality.

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Photographic Imagery: A Window into the Urban Landscape

Photographic imagery—whether standard photographs or satellite images—offers a powerful and distinct perspective for analysing the urban landscape. Such imagery provides a comprehensive view of the city from many angles, enabling the analysis of temporal changes and the detection of large-scale patterns.

3. 

Using Photographs in Urban Landscape Analysis

Photographic analysis relies on advanced techniques to extract and interpret information:

4.10. Building a Photographic Archive

Image selection: Collecting a variety of photographs that cover different angles and areas of the urban landscape. This may include both historical and contemporary images to track changes over time.

Systematic coverage: Employing structured methods such as grid mapping or longitudinal lines to ensure comprehensive coverage of the area under study.

4.10.1. Image Coding and Analysis

Element coding: Describing each photograph according to specific elements such as building types, construction materials, the presence of green spaces, transportation modes, and other key features.

Semiotic analysis: Exploring the visual meanings conveyed by the images to understand the city’s identity, its functional structure, and its social relations.

Quantitative and qualitative analysis: Applying computer vision and artificial intelligence techniques to perform large-scale image analysis, such as detecting buildings, classifying land uses, or monitoring urban transformation.

Photographs serve as a powerful tool for documenting and remotely studying the urban landscape, offering flexibility and efficiency in analysis—particularly when dealing with large geographic areas or when long-term temporal comparisons are required.

4.10.2. Applications of Urban Landscape Analysis

Urban landscape analysis is employed across a wide range of disciplines, including urban planning, architecture, social studies, and heritage preservation. Below are some key examples:

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Sustainable urban planning: Analysis helps assess the sustainability of urban environments and identify areas that require improvement in design, land use, or infrastructure.

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Urban policy development provides policymakers with valuable data to design strategies that enhance the quality of life in cities.

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Cultural heritage preservation: Urban landscape analysis is used to document and examine historical urban scenes, supporting efforts to preserve a city’s architectural and cultural identity.

Environmental impact studies aid in evaluating the effects of new developments on the existing urban landscape and its surrounding environment.

Enhancement of public spaces: The method is used to study how people interact with public spaces and to identify ways to improve their design and functionality to improve meeting community needs. [31]

4.11. Analysis of Selected Urban Scenes in Tebessa Using Photographic Observation

Analysing an urban scene through a photograph of a specific neighbourhood within a city requires a multidimensional approach that integrates visual, social, economic, and cultural elements. The purpose of this analysis may be artistic (as part of a photographic study), social (to examine urban forms), or architectural (to assess the use and organisation of spaces). Such an approach enables a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics shaping the urban environment.

The following section presents a detailed simulation of the analysis of various urban scenes in Tebessa city focusing on symbolic and representative locations that illustrate the city’s spatial identity and visual character.

Table 1. A detailed simulation of the analysis of urban scenes of some neighborhoods of the archaeological city of Tebessa, Algeria.

Initial Observations	- The location of the space (park) is on a back street in Ain Bani Malik. - Traffic congestion despite the presence of shopping centers. - The spread of informal camps near the waterfront. - The presence of foreign and migrant residents. - Lack of urban planning. - The presence of traditional and modern markets (large market, plaza) close together. - Congestion in commercial areas. - Disparities in the level of services between areas. - Lack of coordination between shopping centers. - Informal housing and poor housing versus luxury housing. - huge disparities in the quality of services. - Lack of coordination between residential centers. - Overlap of residential and commercial uses.
Visual Data Collection	- Photographs captured: - A panoramic view of the field observation sites and the surrounding buildings. - Building façades displaying a blend of colonial, modern, and historical architecture. - Note: The observation sites include shots from the city centre, markets, and recreational areas.
Spatial Structural Analysis	- Access: Multiple entrances from the city’s main streets; the central passageway allows pedestrian flow between different neighbourhoods. - Layout: A central pedestrian zone featuring kiosks and an open area designated for leisure activities or local festivals.
Identification of Architectural and Landscape Elements	- Facades: Buildings display a variety of architectural styles, including traditional colonial structures (some built with stone and featuring wrought-iron balconies) alongside modern constructions with contemporary façades. - Paving: The ground surface is predominantly stone-paved, with sections of modern flooring, although certain areas require maintenance and re-paving. - Vegetation: A limited number of trees, including ornamental urban species and a few palm trees. - Urban furniture: Benches made of concrete or wrought iron, and modern ground lamps designed in a classic style.
Use and Presence	- Mixed but unorganised land uses (including abandoned public spaces and overlapping residential-commercial areas). - Commercial activities intertwined with residential ones; the traditional market is declining in favour of modern shopping centres. - Residential and commercial uses overlap, with a noticeable absence of public spaces for social interaction. - Users: shop owners, customers, visitors, passers-by, young people, and families. - Activity patterns: high levels of movement in the morning and evening. The area serves as a local market and a hub for shops, malls, and various activities. - Activities: shopping, walking, and attending traditional or religious festivals
Historical, Socioeconomic Context	- History: Carnot Square dates back to the colonial era and has been renovated to highlight its role as the heart of the city. - Challenges: Preserving the area’s heritage, managing urban growth, and improving safety and maintenance. - Current issues: Deterioration of public facilities, insufficient maintenance, and the uncontrolled spread of street vendors. - Visual and noise pollution, social marginalisation (particularly in informal settlements), lack of balance between economic, environmental, and social development, and the declining role of public spaces in fostering social interaction.
Specific Issues	- Positive aspects: Livable spaces that serve as symbols of the identity of Tebessa, functioning as key areas for shopping and commerce. - Areas for improvement: The organisation and management of informal markets operating on certain days of the week, alongside enforcing hygiene standards and repairing damaged urban furniture in the streets.
Recommendations	- Renewal of pavements and building façades. - Installation of clear signage to facilitate smooth traffic flow. - Improved lighting, particularly to enhance safety at night. - Reorganisation of market stalls to promote order and efficiency. - Provision of additional relaxation areas for the public.
Conclusion	- Redevelopment of public, commercial, and residential spaces. - Creation of green areas and urban interaction spots. - Improvement of infrastructure and public services. - Enhancement of community participation in decision-making processes. - Implementation of balanced development policies that integrate economic, environmental, and social dimensions. - Regulation of land use and equitable distribution of services.
General summary	Main issue: The absence of organised urban planning has led to: - Congestion and pressure on public services. - Social and economic disparities. - Environmental and cultural degradation. - Marginalisation of certain population groups. Proposed solution: The development of a sustainable urban model based on: - Integrated planning. - Fair distribution of services. - Active community participation in decision-making. - Achieving a balance between economic growth, cultural identity, and environmental preservation.

Table 1. A detailed simulation of the analysis of urban scenes of some neighborhoods of the archaeological city of Tebessa, Algeria.

Initial Observations	- The location of the space (park) is on a back street in Ain Bani Malik. - Traffic congestion despite the presence of shopping centers. - The spread of informal camps near the waterfront. - The presence of foreign and migrant residents. - Lack of urban planning. - The presence of traditional and modern markets (large market, plaza) close together. - Congestion in commercial areas. - Disparities in the level of services between areas. - Lack of coordination between shopping centers. - Informal housing and poor housing versus luxury housing. - huge disparities in the quality of services. - Lack of coordination between residential centers. - Overlap of residential and commercial uses.
Visual Data Collection	- Photographs captured: - A panoramic view of the field observation sites and the surrounding buildings. - Building façades displaying a blend of colonial, modern, and historical architecture. - Note: The observation sites include shots from the city centre, markets, and recreational areas.
Spatial Structural Analysis	- Access: Multiple entrances from the city’s main streets; the central passageway allows pedestrian flow between different neighbourhoods. - Layout: A central pedestrian zone featuring kiosks and an open area designated for leisure activities or local festivals.
Identification of Architectural and Landscape Elements	- Facades: Buildings display a variety of architectural styles, including traditional colonial structures (some built with stone and featuring wrought-iron balconies) alongside modern constructions with contemporary façades. - Paving: The ground surface is predominantly stone-paved, with sections of modern flooring, although certain areas require maintenance and re-paving. - Vegetation: A limited number of trees, including ornamental urban species and a few palm trees. - Urban furniture: Benches made of concrete or wrought iron, and modern ground lamps designed in a classic style.
Use and Presence	- Mixed but unorganised land uses (including abandoned public spaces and overlapping residential-commercial areas). - Commercial activities intertwined with residential ones; the traditional market is declining in favour of modern shopping centres. - Residential and commercial uses overlap, with a noticeable absence of public spaces for social interaction. - Users: shop owners, customers, visitors, passers-by, young people, and families. - Activity patterns: high levels of movement in the morning and evening. The area serves as a local market and a hub for shops, malls, and various activities. - Activities: shopping, walking, and attending traditional or religious festivals
Historical, Socioeconomic Context	- History: Carnot Square dates back to the colonial era and has been renovated to highlight its role as the heart of the city. - Challenges: Preserving the area’s heritage, managing urban growth, and improving safety and maintenance. - Current issues: Deterioration of public facilities, insufficient maintenance, and the uncontrolled spread of street vendors. - Visual and noise pollution, social marginalisation (particularly in informal settlements), lack of balance between economic, environmental, and social development, and the declining role of public spaces in fostering social interaction.
Specific Issues	- Positive aspects: Livable spaces that serve as symbols of the identity of Tebessa, functioning as key areas for shopping and commerce. - Areas for improvement: The organisation and management of informal markets operating on certain days of the week, alongside enforcing hygiene standards and repairing damaged urban furniture in the streets.
Recommendations	- Renewal of pavements and building façades. - Installation of clear signage to facilitate smooth traffic flow. - Improved lighting, particularly to enhance safety at night. - Reorganisation of market stalls to promote order and efficiency. - Provision of additional relaxation areas for the public.
Conclusion	- Redevelopment of public, commercial, and residential spaces. - Creation of green areas and urban interaction spots. - Improvement of infrastructure and public services. - Enhancement of community participation in decision-making processes. - Implementation of balanced development policies that integrate economic, environmental, and social dimensions. - Regulation of land use and equitable distribution of services.
General summary	Main issue: The absence of organised urban planning has led to: - Congestion and pressure on public services. - Social and economic disparities. - Environmental and cultural degradation. - Marginalisation of certain population groups. Proposed solution: The development of a sustainable urban model based on: - Integrated planning. - Fair distribution of services. - Active community participation in decision-making. - Achieving a balance between economic growth, cultural identity, and environmental preservation.

Figure 6. This is a figure. Photos of the Tifast neighborhood (historic center of Tébessa).

Figure 6. This is a figure. Photos of the Tifast neighborhood (historic center of Tébessa).

Summary of the SWOT matrix for all study neighbourhoods:

In order to complete the SWOT matrix (an analysis of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats) for an urban setting, we used field observations and photographs as the basis for our data collection and analysis.

Here is a detailed explanation of how this was done:

4.12. First: Understanding the purpose of a SWOT analysis in an urban context.

SWOT analysis in an urban landscape aims to:

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Assess the current situation of the neighbourhood or area.

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Identify strengths.

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Identify weaknesses.

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-Explore development potential (opportunities).

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Beware of risks or negative external factors (threats).

4.13. Second: Data Collection through Field Observation and Photographs

Field Observation focusing on the following aspects:

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Infrastructure: Roads, pavements, lighting, sanitation systems, etc.

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Land use: Residential, commercial, industrial, and public open spaces.

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Building conditions: New, deteriorated, or abandoned structures.

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Availability of services: Schools, hospitals, parks, mosques/churches, etc.

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Safety and security: Night lighting, police visibility, etc.

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Social interaction: Public gatherings, local markets, cultural activities.

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Mobility and accessibility: Public transport, pedestrian pathways, cycling lanes.

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Record your observations in a notebook or an application, including dates and times.

4.14. Photographic Documentation as a Research Tool:

Take representative photographs covering:

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General views that illustrate overall urban layout.

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Indicative details, such as road damage, street art, or cleanliness conditions.

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Public spaces: How are they used, and by whom?

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Social indicators: Advertisements, political posters, etc.

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Classify photographs according to themes (e.g., infrastructure, services, social environment).

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Use the images later as visual evidence to support each element within the SWOT matrix.

4.15. Categorising Observations within the SWOT Framework:

After data collection, all observations were organised into four categories forming the final SWOT matrix.

4.16. General Analysis of the Neighbourhoods Within the Study Sample

This analysis aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the strengths and weaknesses facing Tebessa’s urban fabric, based on a summary of the SWOT matrix for the city’s various neighbourhoods (the city centre, Skanska and Kh’man Hussein), which are considered among the best areas in terms of their urban landscape (buildings, streets, open spaces, etc.).

The neighbourhoods under study are characterised by their strategic location adjacent to one of the national roads and their generally good infrastructure. Particular attention is paid to the natural environment, such as internal residential gardens and trees along pavements in front of houses.

Most of the observed urban scenes are compact and characterised by simple, practical architectural forms that demonstrate a certain visual harmony, particularly through the use of light and earthy tones on façades. Most buildings have dual use, with the ground floor often dedicated to commercial activity.

However, several shortcomings were also identified, including the insufficient maintenance of façades and the lack of upkeep of older buildings. This results in a fragmented and visually inconsistent urban landscape. Moreover, social interaction appears limited and green spaces are either scarce or in decline. [32]

The SWOT analysis of the urban scene, based on field observation and photographic documentation, considers:

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Sensory accuracy — through direct visual and experiential engagement.

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Visual documentation provides credibility and enhances presentation.

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Strategic analysis — transforming observations into actionable insights.

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This approach elevates photographs and observations beyond mere descriptions, transforming them into a tool for conscious and informed urban transformation.

Table 2. Summary of the SWOT Projection for the Three Neighbourhoods Studied in the Field.

Internal factors
Strengths	Weaknesses
What distinguishes this urban scene? - The presence of a lively local market that strengthens the local economy. - Safe pathways for pedestrians and cyclists. - Buildings featuring traditional architectural character. - Visible community cooperation, such as neighbourhood cleaning initiatives. - Photographs showing clean parks, children playing safely, and artistic murals.	What are the current problems observed in the area? - Deteriorated or unpaved roads. - Absence of green spaces or public open areas. - Severe traffic congestion. - Abandoned buildings that have become hotspots for antisocial behaviour. - Photographs showing accumulated waste, broken pavements, and malfunctioning street lighting.
External factors
Opportunites	Threats
What are the untapped potentials or upcoming opportunities that could be leveraged? - The area’s proximity to a new public transport project (metro, tramway, etc.). - Potential government support for the regeneration of old neighbourhoods. - Growing interest in cultural tourism. - Presence of active youth who can be engaged in volunteer initiatives. - Photographs may show old buildings suitable for restoration and wide streets that could be converted into pedestrian zones.	What are the potential risks that could negatively impact the area? - The dominance of modern and contemporary buildings over traditional and historic structures. - Continued unregulated construction leading to the loss of urban identity. - Limited availability of green spaces. - Displacement of residents due to real estate development. - Pollution from nearby factories. - Rising crime rates in adjacent neighbourhoods.

Source By the researcher.

Table 2. Summary of the SWOT Projection for the Three Neighbourhoods Studied in the Field.

Internal factors
Strengths	Weaknesses
What distinguishes this urban scene? - The presence of a lively local market that strengthens the local economy. - Safe pathways for pedestrians and cyclists. - Buildings featuring traditional architectural character. - Visible community cooperation, such as neighbourhood cleaning initiatives. - Photographs showing clean parks, children playing safely, and artistic murals.	What are the current problems observed in the area? - Deteriorated or unpaved roads. - Absence of green spaces or public open areas. - Severe traffic congestion. - Abandoned buildings that have become hotspots for antisocial behaviour. - Photographs showing accumulated waste, broken pavements, and malfunctioning street lighting.
External factors
Opportunites	Threats
What are the untapped potentials or upcoming opportunities that could be leveraged? - The area’s proximity to a new public transport project (metro, tramway, etc.). - Potential government support for the regeneration of old neighbourhoods. - Growing interest in cultural tourism. - Presence of active youth who can be engaged in volunteer initiatives. - Photographs may show old buildings suitable for restoration and wide streets that could be converted into pedestrian zones.	What are the potential risks that could negatively impact the area? - The dominance of modern and contemporary buildings over traditional and historic structures. - Continued unregulated construction leading to the loss of urban identity. - Limited availability of green spaces. - Displacement of residents due to real estate development. - Pollution from nearby factories. - Rising crime rates in adjacent neighbourhoods.

Source By the researcher.

5. Conclusions

5.1. Evaluation and Prospects

Analysing the interactions between urban form, the urban landscape, and identity in Tebessa reveals complex dynamics that influence the city’s aesthetics and the residents’ sense of belonging. Given the city’s architectural heritage, which spans various historical periods — most notably the Byzantine and French colonial eras — it is crucial to understand how this built environment shapes perceptions and representations of identity. This heritage is not merely a relic of the past; it embodies a collective identity that is deeply rooted in the memory of the inhabitants and their relationship with the urban space. In a context of rapid change, where new developments may come into conflict with historical heritage, the identity dimension assumes greater importance.

The question of urban landscape coherence in Tebessa is also closely linked to sustainability issues embedded within development policies. Urban planning decisions must focus not only on optimising existing spaces, but also on ensuring the environmental integrity of the territory. Consequently, the pursuit of sustainable solutions is imperative, particularly as the city faces challenges such as urban decay and the deterioration of its visual character. Development projects that integrate environmentally respectful approaches and the use of local resources to achieve visual harmony can improve residents’ quality of life and strengthen their attachment to place.

Furthermore, the study of urban expansion patterns in Tebessa shows that urban sprawl directly affects the quality of the urban landscape, threatening not only agricultural land, but also the traditional urban fabric that underpins local identity. Therefore, an integrated planning strategy is needed to manage this expansion and preserve the natural resources and cultural values of the affected areas.

It is equally important to emphasise that the participation of citizens in the planning process is a decisive factor in the success of urban projects, as well as in their ability to strengthen urban identity. Involving residents ensures that interventions address the community’s genuine needs and aspirations. Conversely, the absence of such participation can result in projects that are disconnected from local realities, thereby undermining the harmony of the urban landscape and social cohesion. Taking citizens’ observations and lived experiences into account is an integral component of participatory planning strategies, ensuring that urban developments are perceived as desirable and supported by the community, rather than as imposed.

In summary, Tebessa’s urban identity and the coherence of its urban landscape are closely linked to the development models being implemented. It is crucial to strike a balance between heritage preservation, sustainable development, and citizens’ appropriation of space. Maintaining local characteristics while integrating new forms of housing and collective living is essential for building an urban future that respects the community’s values and aspirations. A dynamic process of co-construction, where development policies are formulated in consultation with residents, would strengthen this sense of identity and contribute to the long-term sustainability of Tebessa’s urban landscape.

Through such transformations, Tebessa should evolve into a reflection of an ever-changing collective identity, where the past and the present intertwine to create a harmonious future for future generations.

Based on the findings of this modest study, it can be concluded that there is no clearly defined or commonly agreed architectural style in Tebessa. Self-built housing dominates the urban landscape, contributing to a distorted urban image that represents the prevailing architectural pattern. Furthermore, the absence of consensus among architects, urban planners, and decision-makers has hindered the formulation of a coherent framework to mitigate this phenomenon and establish a unified urban and architectural model to reduce visible disparities in the city’s-built environment.

The study also concludes that the coexistence of multiple uncoordinated architectural styles has led directly to the deformation of Tebessa’s urban landscape, resulting in informal, self-constructed building practices that reflect the city’s current socio-economic conditions and historical circumstances, which include:

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The absence of key figures in construction and urban development who can guide and improve the city’s urban landscape.

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A lack of an agreed architectural style to curb the spread of informal, self-built housing.

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Traditional buildings are being transformed into modern forms, which has led to a decline in the city’s historic character and an increase in standardised, plot-based construction.

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The absence of urban control authorities and weak legal oversight of construction activities has resulted in buildings being constructed without even basic planning documentation.

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Building owners failing to comply with local planning regulations and design specifications for each area or district leads to visual chaos and a lack of coherence in the city’s architectural façades.

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The incomplete construction and finishing of many buildings have negatively impacted the city’s overall appearance, creating a visually unsettling urban landscape.

5.2. Prospects for the Sustainable Harmonisation of the Urban Landscape

When considering the sustainable harmonisation of Tebessa’s urban landscape, it is crucial to develop integrated strategies that take into consideration local characteristics and address contemporary urban planning challenges. The transformation of cities, particularly in light of urban population growth and mounting pressure on natural resources, requires a multidimensional approach to ensure the long-term sustainability of urban spaces. This process involves reassessing existing spaces and conducting a comprehensive study of the interactions between urban planning, the environment, and the cultural identity of local communities.

A key way to achieve a sustainable and coherent urban landscape in Tebessa is to adopt urban planning practices based on sustainability and resilience principles. The city is currently experiencing visible degradation of its urban scenery, exacerbated by urban contraction and uncontrolled urban sprawl. Therefore, it is crucial to develop policies that promote controlled densification and the optimal use of available urban spaces while safeguarding the surrounding natural and agricultural landscapes. Consequently, development projects integrating green spaces and ecological infrastructure can play a vital role in improving the quality of urban life and preserving Tebessa’s distinctive landscape identity.

At the same time, strengthening Tebessa’s architectural heritage, which is largely from the colonial era, should be a central pillar of this harmonisation process. This heritage is a testament to the city’s history and serves as a vital carrier of its inhabitants’ identity. Integrating these heritage elements into development projects enhances the relationship between residents and their environment while ensuring aesthetic and historical continuity within the urban landscape. This could involve initiatives to rehabilitate historic buildings and create urban trails celebrating the richness of the local heritage, thereby contributing to the renewal of Tebessa’s collective identity.

Furthermore, a participatory approach to development is essential for achieving true harmony. Involving citizens in decision-making processes ensures that urban projects are better tailored to meet the community’s needs and aspirations. Consulting residents ensures that changes to their living environment are perceived as positive developments rather than imposed transformations.

Studies show that shared urban spaces where inhabitants feel heard and valued foster a stronger sense of belonging and responsibility towards the urban environment. Therefore, developing citizen engagement strategies must become an integral part of Tebessa’s future development policies.

In summary, Tebessa’s urban landscape can be sustainably harmonised by combining heritage preservation, citizen engagement, and responsible spatial management. The ultimate goal is to create an urban environment that meets the population’s current needs while protecting the region’s cultural and natural heritage.

This challenge requires ongoing dialogue between all stakeholders involved in the development process, as well as a long-term vision that prioritises urban identity. By taking this approach, Tebessa can become a symbol of balanced urbanism amid its transformations — a city where the past and the future unite to provide residents with a harmonious and sustainable living environment.

Based on the findings of this study, our goal is to establish clear priorities, tools, and mechanisms for improving the urban landscape of Tebessa, to achieve promising prospects. This includes drafting a specific legal framework for promoting the urban image of Algerian cities, inspired by existing regional and international urban planning laws. These objectives can only be realised through a shared commitment to the following principles:

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Developing an authentic Algerian architectural style that reflects the culture, traditions and family structure of society.

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Enforcing legal oversight to ensure proper attention is given to the city’s aesthetic appearance, particularly through the regulation and finishing of building façades.

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Assessing the community’s economic capacity to determine individuals’ financial means would guide architects and urban planners in proposing building methods aligned with the suggested architectural style.

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Launching a comprehensive legal framework aimed at improving the urban landscape through systematic evaluation, approval and research based on national, regional, global economic, social, and environmental developments.

Furthermore, urban decision-makers must re-evaluate the fundamental criteria that determine the components and features of the city’s morphological and visual structure. This revision must be precise and adapted to the characteristics of each area to create a more realistic architectural model that aligns with the local environment, reflects the social fabric, and responds to economic realities.

Finally, it is crucial to enforce adopted laws and regulations strictly, giving them the same binding authority as existing architectural and urban planning legislation. This approach would make these provisions integral parts of Algeria’s urban and architectural governance, serving as key instruments to guide future urban development in a coherent, sustainable, and culturally grounded manner.

It is concluded that the transformation of architectural styles in Tebessa has profoundly impacted the urban landscape, influencing several dimensions, including social, cultural, identity-related, and aesthetic aspects, not to mention the psychological effects of visual pollution.

This raises the crucial question of the destiny of Tebessa’s urban identity, particularly given the lack of coordinated measures integrating legal, social, and participatory dimensions. These dimensions must be grounded in a shared sense of responsibility among stakeholders in the architectural and urban planning sectors. The aim is to establish corrective standards and guidelines that can improve and enhance the urban landscape.

Accordingly, this study contributes to our understanding of the role of urban form and architectural patterns in shaping the urban scene, offering insights that could open up new avenues for future research. Future studies should address multiple aspects connected to the urban landscape and delve deeper into the question of architectural identity, particularly in relation to its fate in environments shaped by different natural and social cultures. Ultimately, we aim to explore how to achieve a distinctive, enduring architectural model for each region that reflects its unique identity while remaining compatible with modern development dynamics.