Mohamed Mussa
Cairo’s iconic Andalusian Archaeological Park, located along the scenic Nile Corniche in Al-Gezira, has reopened after a complete restoration, on the sidelines of the World Urban Forum (WUF).
Cairo Governor Ibrahim Saber, Minister of Local Development Manal Awad, Minister of Housing Sherif el-Sherbini, and Anna Claudia Rossbach, Under-Secretary-General of the UN and Executive Director of the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), celebrated the park’s revival, aimed at preserving and enhancing Egypt’s heritage.
The restoration, carried out by experts in heritage and funded by Cairo’s Housing Directorate, has revitalised a long-neglected space.
Governor Saber said the restoration focused on bringing the park’s charm back to life, ensuring it maintains green spaces while preserving Egypt’s cultural legacy.
“Visitors will find upgraded infrastructure, a restored irrigation system, and an improved fountain area in the Pharaonic section,” he said, noting that all encroachments on the Nile were removed.
The park, established by Mohamed Bey Zulfikar in 1935, was the first garden in Egypt to be registered as a national monument on the Islamic and Coptic heritage list.
It combines three unique sections: the Island Garden, Andalusian Garden, and Pharaonic Garden.
Its distinct southern section, styled like Spain’s Andalusian gardens, features a grand pavilion with intricate geometric designs and a statue of poet Ahmed Shawqi.
To honor the park’s musical legacy, the Al NourWalAmal Orchestra performed, bringing back memories of past concerts held by legends like Abdel Halim Hafez and Fairuz.
Minister Manal Awad emphasised her ministry’s commitment to supporting local artisans and heritage crafts, particularly for women and youth, through opportunities at home and abroad.
The UN’s Anna Claudia praised Egypt’s rich craftsmanship and shared her delight at experiencing the beauty of Andalusian Park.
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