Saudi’s Planning An Exciting Initiative To Honor The Kingdom’s Poetic Icons Of The Past
Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Culture is embarking on a captivating new initiative, one that pays tribute to some of the most revered Arab poets from the pre-Islamic era.
This groundbreaking project involves documenting the historic sites associated with these literary giants, affirming Saudi Arabia’s pivotal role in Arab culture. Collaborating with the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing, as well as the Ministry of Transport, this endeavor is an extension of the 2023 Year of Arabic Poetry.
Various sites across the Kingdom will be documented and preserved
The initiative will spotlight numerous poetically significant sites across the Kingdom, with a focus on the capital city of Riyadh and extending to regions like Al-Baha, Al-Ahsa, Taif, and more. These locations hold significance in the lives of esteemed poets such as Laila Al-Akhiliya, Majnun Laila, Imru’ Al-Qais, and Labid bin Rabi’ah. Additionally, it will trace the paths of renowned poets like Al-Shanfari, Al-Saltan Al-Abdi, Tarafa bin Al-Abd, Ali bin Al-Muqarrab Al-Ayouni, and Al-Nabigha Al-Dhibani, unveiling the historical tapestry of their journeys.
These poetically iconic sites will become easily accessible to the public
Writers and poetry enthusiasts in Saudi Arabia are in for a treat, as the Kingdom is gearing up to celebrate pre-Islamic Arab poets in a grand way.https://t.co/blCbp7Fo9r
— Vogue Arabia (@VogueArabia) March 25, 2024
Among the notable sites are the homes of poets like Hatem Al-Ta’i in Hail, Hassan bin Thabit in the battlefield of Uhud, and Al-Khansa’ in Madinah. The documentation process aims to make these sites easily accessible, with informative signboards linking them to the poets and highlighting key aspects of their works, particularly the ‘Suspended Odes’ that hold significant cultural value in Arab history.
This initiative not only preserves the rich literary heritage of the Arab world but also offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives and legacies of these celebrated poets. It underscores Saudi Arabia’s commitment to honoring its cultural roots and ensuring that future generations continue to appreciate and draw inspiration from the timeless artistry of poetry.
