ICCROM Announces Shortlist Of Projects For Sharjah Award In Cultural Heritage Conservation

The ICCROM Regional Centre in Sharjah has unveiled the shortlisted projects for the 4th cycle of the ICCROM-Sharjah Award for Good Practices in Cultural Heritage Conservation and Management in the Arab Region (2023-2024). This list features 18 notable projects from countries such as Bahrain, Egypt, Lebanon, Libya, Oman, Palestine, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Syria, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.

"The ICCROM-Sharjah Award for Good Practices cycle for 2023-2024 has been a resounding success," stated Nasir Al Darmaki, Deputy Manager of the ICCROM Regional Centre in Sharjah. "We received an impressive number of projects from various Arab countries this cycle, with 51 submissions. This overwhelming response underscores the increasing awareness and dedication to preserving cultural heritage in the region and emphasises the importance of promoting the efforts made within this framework. It is encouraging to see these wonderful efforts to protect our shared cultural treasures."

The selection process for this award is both meticulous and rigorous. An independent Jury Committee comprising six experts in architecture and cultural heritage conservation recently convened in Sharjah. They assessed each submission based on criteria such as impact, sustainability, community involvement, and innovative methods.

The shortlisted projects reflect a diverse range of initiatives aimed at preserving cultural heritage across the region. For instance, Bahrain's project focuses on digital documentation as a decision-making tool in heritage preservation. Meanwhile, Egypt's contributions include conserving Ahmed Pasha Kamal's dictionary and restoring 48 ram-headed sphinx statues at Karnak temples.

In Lebanon, efforts are directed towards preserving cinematic cultural heritage by rehabilitating historic cinemas and safeguarding posters and films through workshops and festivals. Libya's MaLiCH Project aims at managing its cultural heritage effectively. Oman's initiative involves conserving traditional structures at Misfat al-‘Abriyin.

Palestine showcases several projects: rehabilitating Al-Eizariya town, preserving Qaisariyya market, restoring Nassar Marqus Palace and Tawqan House. Qatar's National Museum is also part of this esteemed shortlist.

Diverse Projects Highlighted

Saudi Arabia presents two projects: rehabilitating Ibrahim Palace and a traditional building apprenticeship program. Syria focuses on restoring Omari Mosque while Tunisia introduces Venus Platform. The UAE contributes with Sharjah Rock Art Documentation and Library of Arts initiatives.

Yemen's Rescue Project for the Museum of Folk Heritage rounds out this impressive list of nominated projects. Each project highlights unique approaches to conserving cultural heritage within their respective regions.

This award cycle has successfully brought attention to significant efforts across various Arab nations dedicated to preserving their rich cultural history. The recognition of these projects underscores their importance in maintaining regional identity through conservation practices.

With inputs from WAM