IFAO

Abstract :

Al-Qāhira / Cairo, like many historic cities around the world, has faced many expansions and transformations since its foundation in 969 (along with the earlier capitals of al-Fusṭāṭ, al-‘Askar, and al-Qaṭa’i‘). Changes that started in the 19^th century have been debated until today. Different interest groups perceive these changes in a variety of ways, depending on the values they attach to the city and its components. In this talk, I will present some of the major players (interest groups, stakeholders, etc.) and shed light on their diverse, often conflicting views and perceptions of these transformations. Central to the discussion will be the Comité de conservation des monuments de l’art arabe / Laǧnat Ḥifẓ al-Āṯār al-‘Arabiyya / The Commission for the Preservation of Monuments of Arab Art (1881-1950s), the body established through a khedival decree under the Ministry of Awqāf (Islamic religious endowment) and transferred in 1936 to the Ministry of Public Instruction until the 1950s, when laws and decrees led to its transformation. The presentation will also analyze how decisions taken — or not — in the past impact the current situation of cultural heritage in Egypt.