“My Research Aims to Preserve and Restore Massawa’s Unique Architectural Heritage while Creating a Sustainable Urban Environment” Prof. Solomon Tesfamariam

Our guest today is Prof. Solomon Tesfamariam, an accomplished Eritrean scholar in civil engineering. He was born and raised in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and now lives in Canada. Prof. Solomon is among the top civil engineering researchers. He has published over 160 peer-reviewed journal articles and 70 conference papers. At the International Conference on Eritrean Studies (ICES) held on January 4-6, he presented a paper on “a safe and sustainable environment subject to multiple hazards like earthquakes, wind, deterioration, and climate change.” Following is a brief discussion of his work.

 Could you please tell us a little bit about yourself?

 I live in Canada and work as a Professor and University Researcher at the University of Waterloo. My expertise lies in infrastructure and earthquake engineering design. The Asmara Heritage Project has recognized my research, and I have been actively engaged in sharing my findings with other engineers through presentations and discussions.

What did you present at the conference, and why did you want to study Massawa?

 My research focuses on the architectural significance of mashrabya, the traditional wooden window screens in Massawa. This interest was sparked in 2019 during a visit to Massawa, where I was captivated by their unique aesthetic and functional qualities. I embarked on a deeper exploration of their history, construction techniques, and role in shaping the urban landscape of Massawa, involving graduate students in the research process.

How have you modeled the restoration process, and what resources have you used?

The first phase of the research involved documenting the architectural details and construction materials used in Massawa. Subsequently, we developed a Heritage Building Information Model (HBIM) using low-cost and readily available photographs. This involved rectifying images, tracing polygonal outlines, and developing synthesized façade drawings. For buildings with severe damage or missing parts, contextual relationships were used to guide the digitization process. The HBIM platform is then used to explore and present various sustainable and innovative management strategies for the revitalization of Massawa.

Can you elaborate on your research process and the role of your students?

My initial research involved extensive independent study, including a thorough review of historical documents and architectural literature on Massawa. This provided me with a foundational understanding of the city’s built environment and the cultural context within which the historical buildings evolved. I then guided my students through the research process, sharing my knowledge and insights while encouraging their own independent exploration and critical thinking. Through collaborative efforts, we were able to delve deeper into the subject matter and achieve the research outcomes presented at the conference.

Are there other examples that can serve as a model for what you are planning to implement in Massawa?

While successful building restoration projects exist in other countries, such as Greece and Italy, these often focus on individual buildings or small clusters. Our approach differs significantly. Our research provides a comprehensive framework for revitalizing Massawa as a whole, emphasizing the restoration of historical buildings while integrating modern elements to create a sustainable and vibrant urban environment in an earthquake prone region. The academic community has recognized this research, with two peer-reviewed articles published in international journals: the “Journal of Archaeology and Digitization” and the “Journal of Building Engineering.” These publications have been well-received by experts in the field, particularly for their contribution to the understanding of Massawa’s historical context. This research has also been recognized with an academic award.

What kind of feedback have you received, and how are you planning to disseminate and implement the results of your research to policymakers?

The research has garnered significant interest and enthusiasm from various departments and ministries. It has highlighted the potential for revitalizing Massawa while preserving its unique cultural heritage. We believe that a gradual and sustainable approach involving the renovation of individual buildings and encouraging shared responsibility among owners, institutions, and the public sector is the most effective way to implement these findings. By establishing clear construction standards and quality guidelines, we can ensure that restoration efforts are carried out responsibly and contribute to the long-term sustainability of Massawa’s built environment.

What kind of challenges did you have while conducting the research?

The COVID-19 pandemic presented some challenges. However, it also provided an unexpected opportunity for indepth study, allowing me to delve deeper into Massawa’s historical and architectural literature.

Do you plan to replicate this kind of study in other cities in Eritrea?

While this research focused on Massawa, the findings can be applied to other cities in Eritrea with rich architectural heritage. Similar studies could be conducted in other historical cities, such as Keren and Agordat, to document, understand, and ultimately preserve their unique architectural features and cultural significance.

What message do you have to other Eritreans or others to engage in this area?

This research has the potential to inspire and motivate other Eritreans, particularly engineers and social scientists, to engage in similar initiatives. I am always open to mentoring and collaborating with individuals who are interested in contributing to this important work.