Amman, April 20 (Petra) – President of ICOMOS Jordan and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador for Cultural Heritage Princess Dana Firas patronised a ceremony marking World Heritage Day.

Organised by the Department of Antiquities in cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the event, held Sunday evening at the Odeon Theatre in Amman, was attended by officials and representatives from UNESCO in Amman.

It highlighted the importance of cultural heritage as a shared human value and its vital role in fostering dialogue, strengthening identity and contributing to a more sustainable future amid growing global challenges.

In her remarks, Princess Dana said that living heritage is not merely something to celebrate from the past but a dynamic and renewable force that reflects the identity of societies and their ability to adapt and endure.

She noted that heritage serves as a bridge for human connection, particularly in times of crisis.

Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Imad Hijazeen said heritage is no longer a static reflection of history but has evolved into a framework for understanding the present and a practical tool for addressing contemporary challenges.

He added that accumulated human experience represents applied knowledge that strengthens societies' resilience.

"In Jordan, this vision is embodied in our heritage sites, which reflect the interaction between people and their environment and form an integral part of our national narrative," Hijazeen said.

Director General of the Department of Antiquities Fawzi Abu Danah said that heritage preservation now goes beyond safeguarding buildings and archaeological sites.

It includes maintaining the living connection between people and their cultural heritage through integrated approaches that embed heritage into national policies and risk management strategies, ensuring its sustainability for future generations.

The event featured a panel discussion titled "Our Heritage in the Face of Challenges," as well as artistic performances and an awards ceremony honouring winners of heritage-related competitions.

The activities focused on community engagement in protecting heritage and raising awareness of its value.

World Heritage Day was first launched in 1982 by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) and later adopted by UNESCO.

It has since become an annual occasion to highlight the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage and promoting its role in sustainable development, particularly in the face of challenges such as conflict, climate change and natural disasters.

This year's theme, "Living Heritage and Emergency Response in Conflict and Disaster Contexts," reflects the growing need to strengthen heritage protection mechanisms and enhance resilience as a key component of shared human identity.

//Petra// AK

20/04/2026 19:06:07