Heritage Festival begins
Manama : The 26th annual Heritage Festival was opened yesterday by His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa on behalf of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.
The festival, organised by the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities and based on a theme of ‘Memory of Muharraq’, was held at the Heritage Village near Arad Fort.
In his inaugural address, HH Shaikh Isa told the participants of the festival that the event, which is actively supported by HM the King, “reflects a commitment to showcasing authentic Bahraini culture and preserving it for future generations.”
HH Shaikh Isa welcomed the commemoration of the city of Muharraq’s rich heritage at this year’s festival, which coincides with the celebration of Muharraq as the Capital of Islamic Culture 2018, highlighting the vital cultural contribution Muharraq has made throughout Bahrain’s history.
His Highness then toured the festival, accompanied by Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, and was briefed on the festival’s programmes and events, which focus on the important aspects of Muharraq’s history in a number of areas including literature, art, sport and architecture.
Shaikh Isa was also briefed on the Bahrain National Museum’s collection of Bahraini Women’s Fashion and toured the local Market and cafes. Later, HH Shaikh Isa observed folk dances and games and was told about the different workshops being held throughout the festival.
His Highness praised the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities for their successful organisation of the festival and wished the authority continued success in their work to highlight the cultural impact of the Kingdom of Bahrain.
For her part, Shaikha Mai Bint Mohammed Al Khalifa extended her thanks to His Majesty King Hamad for his role in enhancing the Kingdom of Bahrain’s heritage and for his ongoing patronage of the Annual Heritage Festival.
She expressed her appreciation to His Highness Shaikh Isa for opening the 26th Annual Heritage Festival on behalf of His Majesty the King.
This year’s Heritage Festival programme, Shaikha Mai said, highlights some of the many historic achievements and cultural features of Bahrain. “Bahrain’s heritage, extending from the civilisation of Delmon until today, represents a great source of pride to the Kingdom’s citizens,” added Shaikha Mai.
The 26th Annual Heritage Festival will continue until 5 May.
Related Posts