Processus d'affiliation typologique du marché Zakaria d'El- Harrach

Abstract

Algeria is at the crossroad of many civilizations. The passing by of each one of them has shaped the landscapes in its own way. This essay is focused on the industrial time which has impacted the history of the world. In Algeria, the industrial era takes place in the second half of the nineteenth century. It is mainly perceptible through the presence of utilitary structures such as markets and stations as well as warehouses and factories of all sorts. This architecture embodies our history through a noticeable change in the way of thinking and producing. It witnessed the technical and technological progress achieved then, along with the ingenuity of the ones who managed to master the arts of reflexion, technology, design and history. Denigrated at first, recognized centuries later and praised in our actual time, these constructions are envied for their qualities and used as a demonstration of local history, art and culture. Yet in Algeria, these constructions are often subjected to dark and irrational political judgments, and are only used for utilitary means. That in spite of the activists and students' actions to preserve their being. Therefore, the future of these structures remains vague, uncertain and mostly ambiguous. The aim of this essay is mainly to highlight the multiple assets of these constructions through one primary example: the Zakaria market based in El Harrach. Not only does this study put in evidence the values of such establishments, it also reflects on their future state and becoming. The ingenuity and flexibility put into these creations render them a timeless example in the world of architecture. In our actual context, a reflexion about the preservation and actualization of these structures could lead towards a regain of interest for these industrial construction sites, eventually arousing new ways of architectural thinking