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Essaouira Aims for UNESCO Heritage Expansion, Preserving Its Timeless Charm

Monday 11 March 2024 - 09:10

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In a proactive move to safeguard its rich cultural tapestry, the captivating Moroccan city of Essaouira has mobilized resources to expand its perimeter within the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage List. This ambitious undertaking was unveiled by Andre Azoulay, esteemed Counselor to His Majesty King Mohammed VI, during a recent forum held in the city.

Azoulay, addressing the audience as the Founding President of the Essaouira-Mogador Association, emphasized the urgency and legitimacy of this crucial project. He urged attendees to recognize the stakes, challenges, and promises that lie ahead for the "Windy City" in both the medium and long term.

Highlighting the importance of building upon Essaouira's existing achievements since its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2001, Azoulay shed light on the city's determination to take a significant leap forward. Commending the ambitions and resolve of the Souiris (residents of Essaouira), he praised their steadfast commitment to showcasing Morocco's vibrant heritage, culture, and rich diversity on the global stage.

Essaouira, one of the most distinguished African cities within the UNESCO galaxy, holds a revered position in the realm of world heritage. Azoulay emphasized the mutual responsibility borne by the Souiris as custodians of this legacy, urging them to protect, promote, and instill respect for their heritages and the values they embody.

Echoing similar sentiments, Adil El Maliki, the governor of the province, stressed the imperative of striking a balance between heritage protection and economic development. "We now have the necessary tools to protect our heritage, but we must act with diligence and responsibility," he asserted, advocating for concerted efforts to preserve Essaouira's cultural identity while fostering sustainable development.

Tarik Ottmani, President of the Communal Council, lauded the significance of this project for Essaouira and its inhabitants. He championed the preservation of the city's unique architectural aspects, a cornerstone of its charm and tourist allure, while advocating for harmonious and respectful development of its heritage.

Karim Hendili, Head of UNESCO Maghreb Office's Culture Program, echoed the sentiment that "Essaouira goes beyond the walls of the medina." He affirmed the legitimacy of the proposal to modify the boundaries of the old Mogador, emphasizing the venture's focus on strengthening the safeguarding and transmission of collective and shared memory.

The two-day event, jointly organized by the Essaouira Culture, Arts and Heritage Local Development Society (SDL. ECAP), the Essaouira Mogador Association, the Ministry of Culture, the city of Essaouira, and the UNESCO Office for the Maghreb, laid the groundwork for a process that will unfold over the coming weeks and months.

As Essaouira embarks on this ambitious endeavor, it remains steadfast in its commitment to preserving its timeless charm while expanding its presence on the global heritage map, ensuring that its rich tapestry of history and culture continues to captivate generations to come.