Assessment process in the delimitation of historic urban landscape of Algiers by AHP

Abstract This research paper covers the way in which landscape delimitation is carried out in a historic urban area context. Landscape delimitation, in this case, explores the relationship between landscape considerations in the urban and heritage planning system in Algeria. The characterisation of the historic urban landscape is challenged by various types of values. The landscape assessment of the central urban historic area of Algiers was focused on its beauty configuration using the AHP multi-criteria method, supported by values obtained through GIS. Various delimitation alternatives of the historical urban landscape are assessed. Distinctive landscapes emerge, moving away from the original historic urban landscape, which is strictly related to the context of the casbah. Spatial landscape delimitation is the means by which the connecting values of the landscape and their interconnections are managed by monitoring problems of fragmentation and ensuring their interaction at the different boundaries. Urban planning must necessarily incorporate landscapes boundaries into the decision-making processes for the conservation of value connections and managing its beauty configuration.