The urban added value of a peripheral thermal complex . Case of Biskra (Algeria) : Project of revitalization of Hammam Salihin Thermal Complex , Biskra

Abstract

Thermalism uses the pressure of moving water of various temperatures to massage the muscles and stimulate circulation. The importance of water & thermalism was highlighted from the beginning of time. Many dynasties & Eras saw it as an essential part of life & health. Algeria has significant potential in thermalism, owning over 202 thermal sources all over the country. After the independence, Algeria started developing its tourism, mainly the thermal tourism department, through data collection, rehabilitation & building of thermal stations. We can count around 25 stations in the Algerian oases. Biskra is one of the many Wilayas to own thermal springs, meaning the presence of thermal stations. The stations were created close to the hot springs, at the city's periphery. Today, most of these stations are losing their attractivity, sociability & connection to the people due to the urban growth & the city catching up to it, disturbing its initial harmony & logic. The research aims to study this logic & try to locate the problem to adapt to its new position in the city by intervening in both the urban & architectural levels. We were able to reevaluate & restore the harmony of the thermal station resulting in gaining the connection to the Boulevard.