Book Fair events in Historic Jeddah: A Ramadan cultural destination
alleys of Jeddah welcome historic the holy month of Ramadan with a different cultural look this year, as the ancient "Al-Balad" corridors have been transformed into open display platforms and live paths that put the book directly and without restrictions at the disposal of visitors, through the Book Gallery that blends the spirituality of the holy month with the fragrance of knowledge.
Reviving architectural heritage with a cultural spirit
The significance of this event extends beyond its role as a book fair; it is part of a broader effort to revitalize Jeddah's historic district, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area stands as a testament to the unique architectural style of the Hejaz region, and hosting cultural events there is part of a national strategy to integrate tangible heritage with contemporary cultural activity. This strengthens the Kingdom's position as a leading tourist and cultural destination in the region, aligning with the goals of Vision 2030, which prioritizes quality of life and enriching the cultural landscape.
Book Gallery Event Details
This cultural event, organized by Benchmark and featuring some 30 local and international publishing houses, offered visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the worlds of literature and thought within a heritage-rich atmosphere. It redefined the community's relationship with reading as a joyful daily activity in the heart of the historic district. The pavilion's design is distinguished by its respect for the natural surroundings, where bookshelves harmonize with wooden latticework and stone buildings, creating an artistic tableau that blends the authenticity of the past with the vibrancy of the present.
Intellectual dialogues under the shade of the latticework windows
During a tour by Al-Youm newspaper to observe this cultural scene, it became clear that the Book Fair transcends its role as a mere book exhibition, offering a rich intellectual program that begins daily at 10:00 PM. The evenings are illuminated by dialogue sessions featuring a select group of specialists who discuss issues of inner peace, the gateways to tranquility, and the compass of life. The discussions also delve into the philosophy of poetry, the mirror of the soul, and harmony in human relationships, striving to present a contemporary model that celebrates national identity and leverages heritage to enhance awareness among new generations, making culture an easily accessible and engaging daily experience.
Sustainable cultural and tourism dimensions
This event holds immense importance both locally and regionally, as it contributes to promoting the concept of "cultural tourism." Visitors not only admire historical buildings but also experience a comprehensive intellectual journey. This experience is further enhanced by the striking blend of past simplicity and meticulous organization, where visitors can purchase their favorite books and relax amidst the ancient latticework windows and under the Ramadan lanterns, creating a unique atmosphere of human and intellectual interaction. This year, the pavilion offers an open invitation to explore knowledge on the roadside, in the heart of history, making it an unmissable destination for visitors to the historical district during the holy month.
