<DIV>The countries of the southern Mediterranean enjoy a rich cultural heritage, at the heart of which lie the medinas - the historic city centers, often dating back to medieval times. Although their cultural value is now widely recognized they have nevertheless been subject to neglect and decay and as yet no coherent restoration policy is being implemented. This timely volume brings together a team of experienced professionals, including urban planners, architects, economists, and financial experts to address the pressing problem of how to revitalize and restore the medinas in a sustainable way. The first part provides an introduction to the problems and issues involved in restoration. The second part presents examples of different medinas - including Damascus, Cairo, Meknes, Fez, Azzemmour - together with important material on the financing and project management of such initiatives.</P></DIV>