Dépôt du dossier des itinéraires culturels des mausolées funéraires et tombes numides auprès de l’UNESCO
Summary of Cultural Developments in Aïn Temouchent
On a recent visit to Aïn Temouchent, Algeria, the Minister of Culture and Arts, Zoheir Bellalou, announced significant cultural initiatives and projects aimed at enhancing the region’s cultural heritage and tourism appeal. Notably, the minister revealed that the dossier for the cultural routes comprising national funerary mausoleums and Numidian tombs has been submitted for UNESCO recognition. Aïn Temouchent is highlighted specifically for its rich heritage, particularly the mausoleum of King Syphax.
Recognition and Cultural Potential
Bellalou emphasized the archeological significance of the region, which positions it as a focal point for researchers and cultural enthusiasts. Recognizing this potential, a national workshop to promote the area’s cultural elements is set to take place before the year concludes. This initiative aims to transform these elements into valuable resources for cultural and tourism development.
The minister reiterated the commitment of the Ministry of Culture and Arts to support various cultural events in Aïn Temouchent. Events include the "Garagouz" National Puppet Festival, a festival dedicated to the development of traditional brass instruments unique to the region, and the Youth Theater Days, all occurring by year-end.
Architectural Developments and Assessments
During his visit to the Aïn Temouchent municipality, Bellalou instructed the involvement of experts from the National Museum of Fine Arts to evaluate the architectural aspects of a municipal building. This assessment will explore a potential rehabilitation project for the structure, aiming to restore its significance and usability.
At the public museum "Kada Berrahou," the minister assessed an exhibition showcasing the historical journey of Emir Abdelkader and toured various sections of the museum, which houses archeological artifacts from ancient geological periods to prehistory.
Community Initiatives and Cinema Inauguration
In a move to promote literacy, Bellalou presided over the distribution of 3,600 books to three municipalities, public hospitals, penitentiaries, and social action establishments. Additionally, he inaugurated the "Fellaoucen" cinema, which underwent a rehabilitation project and marked the start of the "Syphax Documentary Film Days," featuring 12 documentary screenings with several Algerian filmmakers in attendance.
The reopening of this modern cinema facility is part of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s broader strategy to foster a national film industry and enhance cultural infrastructure.
Cultural Expansion and Future Projects
The minister also inspected ongoing renovations at the annex of the "Aïssa Messaoudi" Cultural House, engaging with various artistic workshops. He chaired the signing ceremony for public support agreements with the region, which will finance 11 associative cultural projects aimed at invigorating the local cultural scene during the summer months.
In the Emir Abdelkader commune, Bellalou visited the memorial site commemorating the Tafna Treaty. He received updates on a comprehensive 7,500 m² site development project that includes recreational areas and commercial spaces funded by the municipality.
At the archaeological site of Syphax, the minister learned about a proposed plan to protect both the royal mausoleum and the nearby site of Siga, presented by a specialized consultancy. These efforts are crucial for preserving Algeria’s rich heritage and promoting both cultural identity and tourism in the region.
Conclusion
These developments in Aïn Temouchent highlight a proactive approach to cultural heritage management and community engagement. The initiatives spearheaded by Minister Bellalou underscore the importance of recognizing and enhancing the region’s cultural assets, thereby fostering growth in cultural tourism and education. The concerted efforts to rehabilitate cultural sites and promote local festivals reflect a broader commitment to preserving Algeria’s rich history for future generations.
