Benammar, Zahra

The degradation of architectural heritage in historic cities has accelerated due to urbanization and socio-economic pressures, threatening structurally vulnerable buildings. This study investigates conservation challenges in Annaba's Old City (Place d'Armes), assesses Algeria's legislative and technical frameworks, including Law 98-04 and Executive Decrees 03-323/324, and proposes integrated strategies for sustainable preservation. Using a qualitative case study based on legal analysis, engineering assessments, and field reports, the research identifies major implementation gaps caused by bureaucratic complexity, limited funding, ownership disputes, and weak institutional coordination. It recommends strengthened governance, improved financing, and integrated conservation policies to enhance heritage protection and long-term urban sustainability.