Tafilalt Palace Showcased at Osaka Expo as a Model of Sustainable Architecture
On Wednesday, the Algerian pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka highlighted the Tafilalt Palace in Ghardaïa as an outstanding example of environmentally friendly urban architecture.
The presentation was part of the “Food and Housing Week,” running from June 5 to 16. The head of the Amidoul Foundation, Mr. Ahmed Nouh, delivered a lecture emphasizing the palace as “a unique human experience combining architecture, sustainable development, environmental preservation, and quality of life.”
Nouh described Tafilalt as a model that merges tradition with modernity. “It embodies a comprehensive experience rooted in local identity and community values, built on principles of sustainability and using local, natural materials that respect the environment and the desert’s unique character,” he said.
He also praised the collaboration between state institutions, notably the National Housing Fund, civil society, and local residents to promote environmental awareness and preserve architectural heritage.
Several participants expressed admiration for the eco-conscious approach used in building the palace, including environmentally friendly materials and effective traditional techniques. Many voiced hopes of visiting the unique ecological site soon.
Tafilalt Palace has received several international awards, including the 2023 Global Energy Award in Norway, a bronze medal in the International Housing Award in partnership with the United Nations, the Arab League Environmental Award in 2014, the 2016 Sustainable City Award based on public online voting, and the prestigious 2020 Energy Globe International Award.
