An Ethnographic and Space Syntax Analysis of Urban Morphological Formation in Tartous, Syria, from 1937 to 2022

Port cities hold significant importance in the Middle East, yet they face numerous challenges, mainly morphological changes. This paper aims to study and track changes in the morphological structure of Tartous City, Syria, from 1937 to 2022. The central argument posits that urban spaces historically nurtured social life and can be a physically sustainable expression of resilience and social interaction. The research employs a combination of ethnographic fieldwork, historical documents, and an analysis of historical photographs sourced from Google Earth alongside existing municipal plans for Tartous City. Space Syntax theory is applied to examine changes in the urban landscape, focusing on the street network and applying local and global integration metrics using depthmapX-0.8.0 software. The results reveal the significant influence of natural factors, such as the city's coastal location, on its economic and social development and urban morphology. Notably, the main streets, characterized by their social and economic roles, have maintained their importance and resilience throughout history. However, reliance on modern planning approaches that prioritize vehicular traffic has diminished the social-urban roles of streets in residents' daily lives. The findings confirm that integrating ethnographic observation with Space Syntax offers a comprehensive approach to understanding urban contexts and their transformations. Given the scarcity of sources and research on urban planning specific to Tartous, this study provides valuable insights for policymakers and planners, guiding them in navigating future changes and addressing the new job opportunities emerging in the city. This research underscores the necessity of recognizing the local context. It highlights the urgent need for urban documentation, particularly in Syria and other Middle Eastern countries where urban structures face risks due to ongoing conflicts.