Posted on 04/13/2010 5:56:29 PM PDT by SandRat
CONTINGENCY OPERATING BASE ADDER – Local architecture plays an important role in the culture of the marsh Arabs of southern Iraq. No structure captures the lifestyle and traditions of the region more than the “mudhif,” a traditional structure making a comeback in modern construction here thanks to a little outside help.
First built in the marshes of what is now southern Iraq over 5,000 years ago, the mudhif is a unique local meeting place constructed entirely of reeds, straw and other natural materials.
Over time, the building process hasn't changed greatly.
Lengths of reed about 10 meters long are bunched into columns, tied together, and then shaped into huge parabolic arches. Hand-woven mats are then tied over and between the columns, forming a roof. Finally, reed lattice panels are attached to the sides, allowing for both sunlight and airflow into the interior and enclosing the entire hut.
The design of the mudhif reflects local traditions.
For instance, there are always an odd number of reed pillars in the mudhif, allowing the host of a meeting to sit along one side wall with an equal number of guests to his right and left. This ensures that the tribal shaykh remains at the center of decision-making when conducting business, and reinforces his position of prestige in the area.
Building on this traditional form of construction, U.S. Soldiers with Task Force Pathfinder embarked on a program to incorporate local building materials and techniques into present-day construction projects.
In a military-sponsored training program entitled "The Modernization of the Traditional Marsh Arab Mudhif," local builders used readily available – and generally free – raw materials along with ancient building techniques to construct a model adobe house in Chubayish City in southern Iraq.
Interesting architecture. Thanks for posting.
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