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Abstract

In the archaeological excavations near Rahat, several building complexes were uncovered, including monasteries, churches, settlement remains and agricultural farms dating from the Byzantine period, as well as mosques, dwellings and agricultural installations from the Early Islamic period. Five of these complexes were singled out as being of particular interest to the public and having the potential of becoming a touristic heritage site: a monastery, a church, two mosques, a palace and a mansion. The conservation plan aimed at the development of a recreational area, while preserving the archaeological remains within the residential neighborhoods, maintaining a connection between the local community and the archaeological sites. To preserve the archaeological sites, integrate them in the settlement and emphasize their cultural values, several planning principles were applied: completion of the exposure of the archaeological complexes to best present their story; restoration of important findings, such as mosaics and plaster decorations, for display in situ; and the incorporation of replicas of significant findings. The archaeological sites were developed for the benefit of the city’s residents and the general public.

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