Southern Shouneh, April 23 (Petra) – From the symbolic grounds of the Martyrs of the Battle of Karameh Memorial (The Unknown Soldier), the Ministry of Culture officially launched the Cultural Days of Southern Shouneh, which has been named the Jordanian Cultural City for 2025.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Culture Mustafa Rawashdeh emphasized the significance of the Cities and Districts of Culture program, describing it as a key milestone in promoting cultural decentralization and equitable development across the Kingdom.

"We launch this celebration from a site engraved with the names of national heroes our martyrs who gave their lives for Jordan," Rawashdeh said. He noted the cultural city program supports sustainable development by investing in the local creative economy, leveraging the unique heritage and social identity of each region.

Rawashdeh reflected on the deep historical and cultural legacy of Southern Shouneh home to poets like Nimer bin Adwan, biblical narratives, and legendary tales. He highlighted the area's rich symbolism, from its traditional name denoting granaries and hospitality to its strategic location and role as a winter tourism destination.

The minister also pointed to Southern Shouneh’s political significance in Jordanian history, dating back to the Emirate era. It served as an early hub for cultural and intellectual gatherings, with the Musallah Palace
being a key meeting point for thinkers and writers during the 1930s.

"We hope Southern Shouneh’s creatives will channel the area's rich past and landscapes into cultural and artistic productions literature, film, visual arts that enrich our national narrative," he said.

District Governor Saqr Durou’ echoed the minister’s remarks, describing the designation as a "badge of honor" reflecting the area's civilizational depth and cultural vibrancy. He added, "Choosing the Karameh Martyrs’ Memorial as our launch site is not merely geographic but a tribute to the heroic sacrifices of our armed forces."

Durou’ underscored that Southern Shouneh is not just a land of agriculture and water, but also of artists, intellectuals, and cultural diversity. He praised the town’s historic role in shaping Jordanian identity and reaffirmed its capacity to serve as an open forum for thought, art, and learning core to nation-building and fostering a sense of belonging.

He concluded by saluting the Armed Forces and security agencies for safeguarding Jordan’s unity and stability, reaffirming unwavering support for His Majesty King Abdullah II’s stance on regional issues, particularly Palestine and the Gaza crisis.

The opening ceremony, attended by officials and community leaders from Balqa Governorate, featured a vibrant mix of artistic performances, including traditional music, poetry, folk dances, and heritage displays, celebrating the creative spirit of Southern Shouneh’s people.

//Petra// AF

23/04/2025 23:17:43