Manama, September 27 (BNA) The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities celebrated World Tourism Day, which falls on September 27, 2021, through an evening held in the beautiful historical city of Muharraq.
The evening started at the Pearling Path Visitors Center with the participation of Professor Robert Carter and the Galali Folklore Band, in addition to a tour of the Qasriya market.
The evening was attended by Her Excellency Sheikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, along with representatives of the public and private sectors in Bahrain, as well as culture enthusiasts and media professionals. His Excellency Sheikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Ambassador of Bahrain to France, was introduced by Professor Robert Carter.
On this occasion, Sheikha Mai said: “This year’s World Tourism Day is different from previous years, as we are on the cusp of recovering from a global pandemic and a health crisis that affected sustainable development efforts in general and the tourism sector in particular.”
“Our celebration of this day at this time and in a UNESCO World Heritage site reflects our belief that culture is a pillar of sustainable development and a tool for uplifting local communities.
The city of Muharraq is witnessing a continuous development process aimed at restoring its authentic cultural memory and its position as a center for creativity and civilized production, in addition to drawing the world’s attention to a development model that takes culture as a pillar and the basis for strengthening its tangible and intangible cultural infrastructure.
Sheikha Mai pointed out that the slogan of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities for this year is the “Pearl Path” due to the importance of the site and the efforts made by the authority and the various bodies concerned with cultural and development affairs in Bahrain to achieve sustainable development. In Muharraq and the rest of the Kingdom’s cities.
Professor Carter: The Pearling Path will serve as a resource for development in Muharraq for years to come
During his lecture at the Pearling Path Visitor Centre, Professor Robert Carter – from the British Archaeological Mission – spoke about the historical significance of the site as Bahrain’s second site to be inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
He explained that the series of historic buildings that make up the path will serve as a source for development and investment in the city of Muharraq for years to come.
Professor Carter stated, “The Pearling Path is already attracting visitors and is expected to be a major resource for regional and international tourism in Bahrain.”
“Investing in historic properties and related services has a significant economic benefit as it provides opportunities for the local community.”
He also emphasized that the Pearling Path provides infrastructure projects such as multi-storey car parks, public squares and shopping centers as well as commercial and entertainment projects – which constitute an economic contribution to the entire community – citizens and residents alike.
Professor Carter added: “These upgrades and opportunities will encourage the burned families who have lived there for generations to remain in the city – thus preserving its essence, culture and authenticity – while encouraging those who have left to return.”
“Muharraq is a vibrant city that has unique qualities that allow for sustainable development but needs continuous efforts to ensure that its historical urban fabric is protected and preserved.”
Narrative of pearls through Fijian arts and a tour of the historic Qasriya market
The celebration of World Tourism Day continued, as the Galali Folklore Troupe showcased the fajr art that is an integral part of the pearling profession and one of the most important components of Muharraq’s intangible heritage.
The show was held at the Pearling Path Visitor Center and told the ancient stories and tales of divers and sailors during their months-long pearling journeys at sea through music.
The evening continued with a tour of the Qasriya market, where visitors toured the market to enjoy its most important features as one of the oldest markets in Muharraq.
It played a key role in the formation of the pearling economy in Bahrain, as it witnessed the buying and selling of pearls in addition to storing the wood that was used to build fleets of pearling ships. The market includes five historic buildings located on the pearling path, which includes the Siyadi shops that are architectural models of the small shops that used to make up most of the market.
AOQ