Riwaq

Riwaq, founded in 1991, is a Palestinian organization dedicated to preserving cultural heritage in rural areas. Recognizing the importance of community and cultural centers for marginalized groups, Riwaq focuses on restoration projects that not only create jobs but also raise awareness about the significance of cultural heritage for Palestinian identity.

Riwaq’s work encompasses documentation, restoration, and community engagement, transforming cultural heritage into a tool for social change and economic revitalization. With a dynamic team and growing network of partners, Riwaq continues to play a vital role in preserving Palestine’s rich cultural legacy.

City

Al-Bireh

Country

Palestine

Region

Middle East

Year of Creation

1991

Featured Project

The 50 Villages Project
RIWAQ’s extensive architectural survey (1994-2004) identified 50 villages as hubs for nearly half of the West Bank and Gaza’s historic buildings. The “50 Villages” project aims to revitalize these areas, addressing infrastructure and living conditions amidst Palestine’s political and economic challenges, fostering community empowerment, and redefining heritage preservation.

References

Amiry, S., & Bshara, K. (2007). Political conflict and recovery of cultural heritage in Palestine. Cultural Heritage IN Postwar Recovery: ICCROM Conservation Studies, 6, 68-74.

Awad, J. & Bleibleh, S. (2020). Preserving cultural heritage: Shifting paradigms in the face of war, occupation, and identity. Journal of Cultural Heritage, 44, 196-203, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.culher.2020.02.013.

Cesari, C. (2010). Creative Heritage: Palestinian Heritage NGOs and Defiant Arts of Government. American Anthropologist, 112(4), 625-637, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1548-1433.2010.01280.x

More Information

IMPORTANT: Profile pages for all collectives are in permanent development and have been built using information in the public domain. They will be updated progressively and in dialogue with the organizations by the end of 2024. New features and sections will be included in 2025, like featured videos, and additional featured projects. Please contact us if you discover errors. For more information on mapping criteria and to submit your organization’s information to be potentially included in the database, visit this page

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