Designed by a pioneer of sustainable architecture, Hassan Fathy, the village of New Gourna in Luxor, or ancient Thebes, was commissioned by the Egyptian Department of Antiquities in 1945. The goal was to use local materials and techniques to relocate Old Gourna, a community of amateur archeologists that had sprung up near the ancient sites, and in doing so, curtail damage and looting at nearby Pharaonic sites as well as facilitate tourism development. Only part of the goal was realized. Political and financial complications, as well as residents’ opposition to relocation, prevented completion. However, New Gourna remains a dynamic living settlement, with housing and public facilities, though nearly 40 percent of the original buildings have been lost.
In 2010, New Gourna was placed on the World Monuments Watch, recognizing its historical significance and the need for conservation efforts. UNESCO and the World Monuments Fund (WMF) joined forces to address these challenges. UNESCO undertook a comprehensive survey of the buildings, documenting their conservation needs, while the WMF team conducted interviews with more than a third of New Gourna’s 174 households. This involved analyzing the current conditions, identifying changes in the environment, and examining how the space and buildings had been adapted over time.
The WMF’s work culminated in a community assessment that integrated social and economic concerns into the planning and decision-making process for the village’s future. This report highlighted the importance of considering the needs and desires of the residents alongside the architectural preservation efforts. It also underscored the evolving nature of the village, showing how the community had adapted Fathy’s original designs to suit their changing lifestyles.
Hassan Fathy inspired architects and planners worldwide by integrating traditional materials with modern architectural principles. He was dedicated to involving and empowering the poor through participation in the design and building processes, a main theme in his seminal publication, “Architecture for the Poor.” Fathy’s innovative mixed-use plan for New Gourna, the icon of his legacy, remains a powerful and well-preserved element of the village. The ideas he engendered and the evolution of this community are relevant to today’s challenges of environmental protection and urban growth.

An Icon of Sustainable Design and Cultural Heritage
Fathy’s work in New Gourna was revolutionary for its time. At a period when modern architecture was dominated by concrete and steel, Fathy chose to build with mud brick, a material that had been used in Egypt for millennia. His designs incorporated natural ventilation techniques to reduce the need for artificial cooling, a concept that is particularly relevant in today’s discussions on sustainable architecture. Fathy’s approach was not just about preserving the past, but about creating a sustainable future by drawing on traditional knowledge.
The village of New Gourna was intended to be a model for other communities, demonstrating how modern needs could be met with traditional building techniques. Fathy’s vision included not just housing, but also public spaces and facilities that would foster a sense of community. He designed a central square surrounded by important communal buildings such as the mosque and village hall. The layout of the streets was inspired by the organic growth patterns of traditional Egyptian villages, creating a sense of familiarity and belonging.

Challenges and Adaptations
Despite Fathy’s innovative design, the project faced numerous challenges. The residents of Old Gourna were resistant to moving, partly because they were unconvinced of the benefits of the new village, and partly because of the economic opportunities they had in the old location through informal archaeology. Additionally, political and financial issues plagued the project from the start. Only a portion of the village was completed, and over time, many of the original buildings have been lost.
However, the community has adapted and evolved. The residents have made changes to the buildings to suit their needs, demonstrating the flexibility and resilience of Fathy’s designs. The central square remains a focal point of community life, and the use of local materials continues to be a defining characteristic of the village.

Recognition and Ongoing Restoration Efforts
In recognition of its unique blend of cultural heritage and sustainable design, New Gourna was named among Time’s “World’s Greatest Places of 2024.” This accolade underscores the village’s importance not only as a historical and architectural marvel but also as a beacon of sustainable living and community resilience. As restoration efforts continue, New Gourna stands as a shining example of how traditional techniques and modern principles can come together to create a living, breathing monument to sustainable development.

Renewed Efforts for Conservation and Sustainable Development
In recent years, there has been a renewed effort to conserve New Gourna and continue Fathy’s vision of sustainable development. The partnership between UNESCO and the WMF has brought attention to the village’s historical and architectural significance, and has provided a framework for future conservation efforts. These initiatives aim not only to preserve the physical structures but also to support the social and economic well-being of the residents.
Hassan Fathy’s work in New Gourna remains a testament to the potential of sustainable architecture. His approach of integrating traditional materials and techniques with modern principles continues to inspire architects and planners around the world. The lessons learned from New Gourna are particularly relevant today, as we face the dual challenges of environmental sustainability and cultural preservation.

A Legacy of Sustainable and Inclusive Design
Hassan Fathy’s legacy extends beyond the physical structures he created. His emphasis on community involvement and empowerment has influenced generations of architects and planners. By working closely with the residents of New Gourna, Fathy demonstrated the importance of understanding the social and cultural context in which buildings are constructed. This holistic approach is essential for creating sustainable and inclusive communities.
Fathy’s vision for New Gourna was ambitious and forward-thinking. Although not all of his goals were realized, the village stands as a powerful example of how architecture can serve both people and the environment. The ongoing efforts to preserve and revitalize New Gourna ensure that Fathy’s pioneering work will continue to inspire and educate future generations.
In today’s climate-challenged world, the principles that Fathy championed—sustainability, community involvement, and cultural heritage—are more relevant than ever. New Gourna is not just a historical site, but a living community that embodies these principles. It reminds us that the solutions to our modern challenges can often be found in the wisdom of the past.