Investigating the collective memory of traditional markets in Downtown Amman

Purpose The aim of this study is to investigate the collective memory of urban cultural heritage sites for selected traditional markets in Down town Amman city – Jordan. The study also introduces the concepts urban artifacts and architectural archetypes as an urban/architectural framework for investigating the collective memory of traditional markets. Design/methodology/approach The study followed a qualitative research methodology with a (bottom-up) approach focusing on narrative and structured interviews. The interviews were conducted with 20 participants in each market. This was in addition to archival data collection and site observations. Findings The study revealed that the users of the two markets do have a shared collective memory manifested in multiple forms of cultural expressions. It also revealed the significant role of collective memory in fostering recognition of the urban and cultural significance of the two markets in the form of architectural archetypes and urban artifacts. Research limitations/implications The study contributes in further developing the understanding of architectural heritage in the context of collective memory, and understanding architectural heritage in the context of the city through the concept of urban artifacts. Practical implications The study demonstrates that preservation of collective memory can influence people’s attitudes and behaviors as they develop a collective responsibility toward the cultural heritage site. Originality/value This is the first focused study to introduce the traditional markets of Downtown Amman within the theoretical framework of collective memory. The study also introduces a new scientific investigation of urban cultural heritage in the context of urban artifacts.