Al-Nur square reevaluation

Abstract

Lebanon witnessed starting the 17 October 2019 an unprecedented move of mass protests across its lands. This is so called revolution cam to investigate the country’s social contract which is formed on a corrupt political system. Characterized by institutionalized clientelism and corruption, with an unprecedent economic crisis, this system came into and end. Tripoli is the second largest city in Lebanon and most deprived one which leads to host the largest protest across the country, aptly referred to it as “the bride of the revolution” took place in its main square, Al-Nūr square. Al-Nūr square, a Poor, Chaotic and Inadequate Main Square of the city was witnessing during the revolution the degree of deprivation and poverty that the citizens of Tripoli were and still are living with. Economic, Social and Educational crisis all were the points of departure that forced its citizens to occupied this public square and which aggravated after the protests. Learning, which was once a mundane activity for our predecessors; Tripoli which was well known as the city of science and scientists will be on the rise again. On its main square (Al-Nūr square), my proposed project will reevaluate this dialectical relation between the public square and buildings that are facing it (positive and negative), give the people a chance to learn by providing a mix of free courses and revitalize the hands craft , while also boosting the micro economy and fostering the awareness between the citizens.