Sharjah's Commitment to Heritage Preservation: A Testament to Cultural Legacy
In an illuminating discourse broadcast via Sharjah’s “Direct Line” program, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, elaborated on the critical importance of preserving the emirate’s rich cultural heritage and history. His Highness described the forthcoming publication of his multi-volume work, titled “Majma’ Al Tawarikh,” as a significant contribution to researchers and scholars both in the Gulf region and the wider Arabian Peninsula. This substantial work, anticipated to be unveiled just ahead of the Sharjah International Book Fair, is expected to serve as an indispensable resource for future generations dedicated to the study of local history.
Highlighting Sharjah’s unwavering dedication to the preservation of its heritage sites, His Highness emphasized ongoing restoration efforts, including notable landmarks like the Kayed bin Adwan Al Qasimi Fort in Kalba and Al Qawasim Fort. The commitment to safeguard such sites is evident as restoration projects aim not only to rejuvenate these structures but also to ensure that the artifacts and foundations from earlier periods, including remnants from the Portuguese era, are meticulously preserved.
During the program, Sheikh Sultan shared a compelling narrative regarding the Kayed bin Adwan Al Qasimi Fort, which is situated along the picturesque coast of Kalba. The fort’s history was long shrouded in uncertainty regarding its exact location. However, tireless research efforts revealed its resting place. This discovery was illuminated by a book chronicling historical documents related to Portuguese architecture, offering an authoritative grounding for understanding such structures across the region. The documents indicated that the present Kalba Fort was constructed upon the ruins of the original Kayed Fort, a crucial piece of Sharjah’s historical tapestry.
Upon further investigation, the Ruler noted substantial archaeological work that differentiated the two forts—one being a product of Portuguese design, while the other retains local architectural characteristics. Insights from Portuguese experts corroborated these findings, detailing how previous flooding had necessitated the reclamation and reuse of materials for fortification purposes, an adaptation typical within the region’s historical context.
In this regard, His Highness underscored the intrinsic value of combining historical research with archaeological endeavors to enhance understanding and appreciation of Sharjah’s cultural heritage. As a culmination of ongoing efforts, he proudly declared the successful rediscovery of the original fort site, a testament to Sharjah’s commitment to honoring its past while educating future generations through initiatives rooted in scholarly inquiry.
Further emphasizing the emirate’s dedication to heritage, His Highness revealed the production of a series of short films portraying the historical narrative of Sharjah’s cultural landmarks. Commissioned from the illustrious Lebanese Rahbani Company, these films aim to modernize the dissemination of heritage stories, enhancing public engagement with Sharjah’s rich history. By presenting these narratives as interspersed segments within television programming, the Ruler aims to foster a deeper public appreciation for the historical intricacies embedded within the community’s landscape.
His Highness also articulated a vision for cinematic storytelling, addressing community calls for visual representations of Kalba’s historical legacy. This initiative aims to craft engaging narratives that not only educate but also instill a sense of pride among residents regarding their cultural identity.
Expounding on his latest literary endeavor, the “Majma’ Al Tawarikh,” Sheikh Sultan articulated its significance as an expansive compilation of historical documents sourced from various multilingual archives, including English, Portuguese, French, and Ottoman texts. The book consolidates valuable historical materials into a singular, coherent reference—an essential tool for academics and researchers in the region. Each entry is referenced so that scholars can trace the origins of the information, ensuring rigorous standards of academic integrity.
His Highness’s meticulous approach to historical documentation embodies a steadfast commitment to preserving the integrity of the region’s narrative. By requiring that researchers cite original sources within the text, rather than the compilation itself, he enhances the academic rigor associated with the study of Gulf history and culture.
When addressing queries from constituents, such as concerns around language requirements at the University of Al Dhaid, His Highness maintained a listener-centric approach, affirming the institution’s commitment to inclusivity while upholding educational standards. His observations underscore a careful balance between preserving cultural identity and advancing educational accessibility in increasingly globalized contexts.
In summary, Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi stands as a beacon of heritage preservation in Sharjah, continuously ensuring that the rich tapestry of the emirate’s history is not just honored but actively integrated into contemporary discourse. His efforts serve as a reminder of the necessity for historical stewardship, ensuring that future generations inherit a vibrant and well-preserved cultural legacy.
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