On the list of Jerusalem and Hebron: Old Fez joins the club of Arab heritage capitals

In a move reflecting Arab recognition of its unique historical and architectural value, the ancient Medina of Fes has been included in the first list of sites registered in the Architectural and Urban Heritage Register of the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (ALECSO). This honor elevates the status of the thousand-year-old city not only nationally but as an integral part of the collective memory and cultural identity of the Arab nation.

The announcement of this list, recently launched by the organization, granted the ancient Medina of Fes a prestigious position alongside other prominent Arab landmarks, foremost among them being the Old City of Al-Quds (Jerusalem). This inaugural series also included other Palestinian sites, such as the Old City of Al-Khalil (Hebron) and the Great Omari Mosque in the Old City of Gaza, sending a strong message of support for Palestinian heritage in the face of challenges. The recognition was not limited to Morocco and Palestine; it extended to the Maghreb region, with the list also featuring the Zitouna Mosque in Tunisia, the archaeological site of Azougui in Mauritania, and the village of Tounine in the Libyan city of Ghadames, affirming the richness and diversity of the shared Arab heritage.

The Architectural and Urban Heritage Register, launched by ALECSO, is distinguished by its focus on the creative dimension of architecture, highlighting the contributions of Arab architects in designing structures that express the identity of cities and embody the spirit of the era in which they were built. The register also pays special attention to ancient cities that have preserved their traditional historical character, as well as to contemporary architectural heritage that reflects the evolution of aesthetic taste and knowledge in the Arab world.

According to ALECSO, this register is one of the major initiatives aimed at preserving and promoting architectural heritage in Arab countries, thereby contributing to the safeguarding of the collective common memory and protecting the components of Arab cultural identity from oblivion. The inclusion of the ancient Medina of Fes in this register serves as a culmination of a long history of preserving its identity and affirms its status as a jewel in the crown of Moroccan and Arab cities, and a symbol of human ingenuity deeply rooted in history.

About محمد الفاسي