27 September 2017
Strategy Implementation of Muharraq as the Capital of Islamic Culture 2018, H.E : Pearling Path is national project serving Muharraq citizens and Bahrain regionally and internationally
As the year 2017 approaching to its end, Bahrain Authority for Culture & Antiquities is racing against time to prepare for the most important event celebrating Muharraq as “ the Capital of Islamic Culture 2018”. Indeed, many mega projects will be carried out nest year by BACA to develop the city of Muharraq culturally, urbanely and economically, putting it on the world's cultural-tourism map. One of the most prominent projects planned is “Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy” site on the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2012.
H.E. Shaikha Mai Bint Mohammed Al-Khalifa said “ cultural infrastructure projects are our necessary and essential tools to enhance the Kingdom of Bahrain’s position globally, and put it on the world cultural stage as a developed nation with well-preserved heritage and safeguarded identity. “Pearling, Testimony of an Island Economy” project has propelled the oldest city of Bahrain. Muharraq on to the UNESCO World Heritage List since 2012. This success enabled Muharraq to be honoured and nominated as the Capital of “Muharraq, Capital of Islamic Culture 2018”, coinciding with the completion of Pearling Path project”. H.E added saying “ This project would never have been possible without the enduring support of HM the King the Supreme Commander who believed in its importance and its role in showing the gorgeous beauty of Bahrain”.
H.E has pointed out to the different elements and components of the project adding that “ The Pearling Path is a national project advocated by Bahrain, a country telling its magic story to the world. The project will feature beautiful tales of old city of Muharraq old where alleys and neighborhoods are of great beauty, of iconic symbols and personalities, amazing urban elements and the services offered solely for Muharraq residents. There is no doubt that visitors from inside and outside Bahrain will also enjoy these facilities and find satisfy their ambitions of unique original experience in Muharraq”.
Worth to mention that “Pearling: Testimony of an Island Economy”, UNESCO World Heritage List is located along 3.5 kilometers in Muharraq city. Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (BACA) revealed during this press conference meeting that, in addition to the 17 buildings that will be renovated, another 17 public green spaces will be added as components of the project. These will be set in neighborhoods where residents can enjoy green parks and visitors and tourists can discover the world –class heritage and historic hidden treasure of the city of Muharraq.
The 17 building along Pearling Path project will take visitors on a physical tour to Muharraq, telling the story of the pearl diving industry, starting at the seafront, winding through the old streets of Muharraq and taking in the souq along the way. As part of the project, traditional houses in the area will be refurbished, a path will be built linking a fishing museum to the historic fort, oyster beds ( Heerat) will be restored and visitors will be able to try pearl diving for themselves, and there are also plans to redesign Muharraq souq (Souq Al Qaisariya).To qualify, Muharraq has proved to every visitor and tourist that it has outstanding universal value and that it tells a story of the development of humanity in the region. 17 Interactive public spaces made of green concrete with access to vegetated areas such as parks, open spaces, and playgrounds will certainly contribute to better perceived general health and reduced stress levels and more. Every public space will be equipped with an air-conditioner (AC) according to its size and design, including playing grounds, bleachers and kiosks.
