Saudi Gazette The Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) has a vision to revive the Kingdom's forgotten yet astounding archeological and historical sites. Part of this vision is transforming neglected areas into attractive, busy places, buzzing with life. Saudi nationals and expat residents will walk through these historical sites, visit these places on the weekend, enjoy their time, and learn about the past. Citizens, volunteers, university students, the government, and the private sector will work hand in hand in projects aimed at preserving and restoring these places that have much significance in the founding of this country. Prince Sultan Bin Salman Bin Abdul Aziz, the President of the SCTA, was one of the guest speakers and sponsors of the conference and awards ceremony for the proposed projects that will honor and preserve the architectural heritage in the Kingdom. Prince Khalid Al-Faisal, Emir of Makkah region, graced the event with his presence as well. In an address to the audience and participants of Tuesday's event at King Abdul Aziz University, Prince Sultan Bin Salman said: “The government is going to fund and give loans to many investors to restore important historical sites. We are now living in an advanced era and in a developed country, and we are trying to make up for the destruction and negligence of historical sites that might have occurred in previous years.” “One of the most important milestones to overcome in restoring the nation's architectural heritage is changing the younger generation's view and perception. The issue is not simply about restructuring or a yearning for the past; rather it is showing loyalty to the locations from which this great, unified, and solid country was established. In fact, 80 percent of Saudi citizens have never visited about 80 percent of their country's different regions,” said Prince Sultan. With increased awareness and better funding and by rewarding universities and institutes that take part in archeological restoration and drawing the interest of the general public, the scene is sure to change. “Although in recent years interest in the architectural heritage of the Kingdom was marginal and distant, today it is a realized dream, with all thanks to Allah. Is it logical to erase a country's history, successes, and blessings so that they reside only in textbooks and children's stories? It is very promising to see King Abdul Aziz University, King Saud University, and many others adopting projects in the restoration of archeological and historical sites. We are changing these sites from wasted, misused places to places that bring us pride as a nation,” Prince Sultan added. Meanwhile, another local event that is drawing much attention to the beauty and investment potential of restoring the architectural heritage of the Kingdom kicked off Monday at the Red Sea Mall and will continue until Friday. An exhibition at the mall displays professional photographs and the artwork and creations of 100 gifted artists in stone sculpting, wood work, pottery, and clay. Fun activities targeted towards children are also available under the theme of “color and play”. According to the Executive Director of the Jeddah branch of the SCTA, Mohammad Bin Abdullah Al-Amri, one of the top priorities of architectural heritage restoration projects in the Kingdom's near future will be the Balad or historic Jeddah area. Al-Amri said that the old Jeddah area is one of the most distinguished and important historical sites in the Arabian Peninsula. The area comprises 400 buildings and monuments, many of which are over 500 years old. “The old Jeddah area holds a treasure rich in historic landmarks, buildings, and archeological sites that must be properly protected and maintained. Discussions are underway for trying again to apply to UNESCO to consider old Jeddah as a world heritage site,” said Al
