Beirut: As part of its efforts to strengthen engagement with audiences across the Arab world, World Monuments Fund (WMF) in the Arab States has introduced the first Arabic issue of its magazine, "Window Onto the World."
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, the magazine, published quarterly, serves as a specialized resource on cultural heritage preservation. It provides readers, professionals, and heritage enthusiasts in the Arab world with access to stories and articles highlighting WMF's projects and experiences globally, while showcasing its work in the region. The Arabic edition reflects WMF's commitment to protecting cultural heritage in the region and promoting knowledge exchange. In the Arabic introduction, authored by Her Excellency Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa and Dr. Elie Flouty, WMF emphasizes the importance of making the magazine available in Arabic to enhance communication and provide a platform for exploring WMF's global experiences and projects.
The issue begins with an article detailing WMF's over three decades of engagement in the Arab region, focusing on its initiatives to protect historic sites and support local communities. It highlights several projects in Iraq, Yemen, Egypt, Jordan, and Libya and features Arab sites recognized through the World Monuments Watch program. The magazine also includes stories from around the world, illustrating the diversity of WMF's work, from safeguarding historic places to preserving heritage connected to local communities. Featured articles examine significant projects such as Moseley Road Baths in Birmingham, Sulgrave Manor in the UK, and a heritage project in Tokyo.
Additionally, the issue presents stories emphasizing the human aspect of heritage preservation, such as the restoration of artworks at Saint-Eustache Church in Paris. An interview with Nathan Stroupe, Vice President of Field Projects at WMF, discusses the pivotal role of partnerships and local communities in global heritage conservation. WMF's active role in supporting heritage preservation across the Arab region is evident through its World Monuments Watch program, which has included nearly 75 Arab heritage sites in various cycles. These sites range from historic cities to modern architectural landmarks across countries like Lebanon, Egypt, Iraq, Tunisia, and Morocco.