Egypt suspends demolition of historical Imam Al-Shafi'i cemetery: Media reports
Ahram Online , Friday 25 Oct 2024
The Egyptian authorities have suspended the ongoing demolition work in Imam Al-Shafi'i cemetery area, following an intervention from Minister of Culture Ahmed Hanno to stop the demolition process immediately.
According to media reports, Hanno's intervention came in response to public concern following the circulation of photos showing the demolition of a historic dome in the Imam Al-Shafi'i cemetery area in Cairo.
The authorities also directed to reassess the development plans for the entire area and ensure the preservation of Egypt's urban and historical heritage, particularly in areas with significant cultural importance, media reports added.
According to the reports, Hanno's action reflects the ministry's commitment to protecting Egypt's rich and unique heritage, which testifies to the country's ancient civilization and cultural history.
It also affirms state institutions' commitment to safeguard Egypt's authentic historical monuments and heritage sites, given their importance to both national identity and cultural heritage, the reports added.
In a related context, Dr Mokhtar Al-Kasbani, a professor of Islamic antiquities, clarified the details surrounding the recent demolition in the Imam Al-Shafi'i area, which included the dome referred to as the "Mustawlidah" (midwife dome) of Muhammad Ali Pasha.
In TV statements, Al-Kasbani noted that this dome is not considered a registered monument, emphasizing that historical status is generally reserved for buildings over a century old.
The recent suspension of demolition activities in the Imam Al-Shafi'i cemetery area brings attention to the state's efforts to balance between urban development and heritage preservation.
The Imam Al-Shafi'i area, named after the reverend Islamic scholar Imam Al-Shafi'i, is known for its historic Islamic tombs and monuments that date back centuries.
The cemetery holds significant cultural value as it includes domes and mausoleums of notable Egyptian figures, including members of the Muhammad Ali dynasty.
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