Northern Jordan Traditional Architecture during the 19th and 20th Century: An Ethno-archaeological Perspective

Studying and documenting traditional architecture in Jordan contribute greatly to defining a collective identity as traditional buildings represent an integral part of Jordan’s cultural and historical identity. Through employing an ethnoarchaeological and architectural framework of analysis, this study seeks to identify and analyze the intertwined socio-economic, climatic, and environmental factors that had a critical influence on the development of traditional buildings and the accompanied shifts in the architectural style, role, and functionality during the 19th and 20th centuries in Northern Jordan. The rich diversity in building types in this region varies according to the area and people’s lifestyles. Moreover, this variety is highly influenced by climate and availability of materials, in addition to building expertise and skills. Indeed, the noticeable changes in traditional architecture tell the cumulative history of the local communities who produced these types. The existence of more advanced architectural types in Northern Jordan demonstrates the influence of types from neighboring areas in Palestine and southern Syria.