UNESCO has formally inscribed the fortified granaries (guerrous) of the Aurès Mountains in Algeria to the World Heritage List, citing their exceptional value as models of pre-colonial collective security and climate adaptation. These ancient stone-and-earth structures, some dating back over eight centuries, were designed to protect food supplies against extreme temperature fluctuations and regional conflicts.
The designation highlights the sophisticated ventilation systems and thermal mass engineering used by the indigenous Chaoui people. UNESCO officials emphasized that these sites provide critical lessons for modern sustainable architecture, particularly in arid regions facing increasing desertification. The inscription includes an emergency grant to stabilize several deteriorating structures in the Batna and Biskra provinces.