Al-Hayek Highlights the Need to Safeguard Historic Communities and Archaeological Sites in the Jerusalem Region

الأراضي المقدسة الخضراء / GHLands

Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Hani Al-Hayek emphasized the importance of ongoing government efforts to preserve historic towns and archaeological sites in the villages and communities surrounding Jerusalem. He noted that these sites are an integral part of Palestinian national identity and cultural heritage, stressing that safeguarding them is essential to ensuring this legacy is passed on to future generations.

Al-Hayek made these remarks during a government field visit involving several ministers and members of the diplomatic corps, conducted under the directives of Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa. The tour included the Khan Al-Ahmar community, the historic center of Al-Eizariya, and a visit to the Al-Eizariya Municipality.

He noted that the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities continues to implement programs and projects aimed at protecting historic towns and archaeological and tourism sites by encouraging greater public and visitor engagement, thereby contributing to their preservation and helping counter the threats they face.

Al-Hayek explained that the ministry is actively developing heritage trail tourism and domestic tourism initiatives to raise awareness among Palestinians about the significance of their historical and archaeological sites. He emphasized that regular visits to these locations strengthen their protection and help preserve their history and cultural value for future generations.

The tour included visits to the Khan Al-Ahmar community and the Khan Al-Ahmar Coeducational Basic School, while the delegation also explored some of the most prominent archaeological and tourist landmarks in the historic center of Al-Eizariya.

The delegation concluded its visit with a meeting involving representatives of community organizations and institutions from Jerusalem and Abu Dis, during which participants discussed ways to strengthen the resilience of local residents and support their continued presence in Jerusalem and its surrounding areas.