Abstract The preservation of vernacular architecture in Təgray, Ethiopia, faces significant challenges due to factors such as conflict, ‘modernization’, socio-economic pressures, and environmental degradation. These issues have accelerated the transformation of this architectural heritage landscape, underscoring the need for innovative conservation strategies. This field study, conducted between January and August 2024, combines archival research with advanced 3D documentation technologies to propose a preservation framework. It highlights the limited access to archives from previous studies and expeditions, which are often stored in European and North American institutions. While increased digitization has improved this situation, it still hinders local scholars, authorities, and communities from effectively contributing to science-based conservation efforts in the region. Greater access to these archives would significantly benefit the growing movement of community-driven conservation activities. By integrating archival data with 3D documentation techniques, a comprehensive understanding of vernacular architecture can be achieved, encompassing its historical development and enabling the formulation of effective preservation strategies. This approach allows for detailed insights into construction methods, spatial organization, and the cultural significance of buildings, enhancing conservation efforts and ensuring the preservation of architectural heritage for future generations. The research demonstrates that sustained access to archival information, combined with advanced 3D technologies, significantly enhances the accuracy of documentation, spatial analysis, and restoration planning for Təgray’s architectural heritage. Moreover, these advanced documentation technologies function as dynamic archives, refining the precision of earlier architectural records and facilitating more effective community outreach and application. The study also underscores the importance of collaboration among heritage professionals, archivists, technology developers, and local communities to ensure sustainable and comprehensive preservation initiatives.
Asfha et al. (Sat,) studied this question.