Tote treasures after 100 years

The word of the editor-in-chief differs; the cities of the world in terms of architecture vary according to history and civilization; but Cairo has a special character as the capital that carries behind it an "administrative" legacy that has continued for more than a millennium. Those interested in urban identity in the Gulf region are attracted to modern architectural styles, which are embodied here in the United Arab Emirates specifically in those buildings constructed in the seventies and eighties of the last century, that is, after the Union was established. And as a specialist in documenting architectural heritage in my country, I am interested in elements of this style that express the region’s identity in a modern way that most contemporary models fail to achieve. However, many are drawn to these buildings out of nostalgia for a past full of memories associated with them. There is nothing wrong with a little emotion, even if sometimes it clouds objective dealing with urban development; as I see the necessity of reconsidering the practical and economic feasibility of continuing some of these buildings (and I emphasize the word "some") in the urban scene of our cities. There is a serious and public debate ongoing about this urban matter in the UAE, which will inevitably lead to wise decisions that give our city buildings a modern character without compromising authenticity. We remain within the framework of architecture, but this time outside our region, specifically in Egypt, where your number travels to turn its pages of its rich ancient history, and at the same time follow its march toward the future. In Egypt, there is a rich, valuable archaeological legacy that makes any decision to change the urban scene extremely bold and courageous. The most prominent example of this is the decision to move the administrative capital to another location 45 kilometers east of Cairo. The final features of the new capital — and its official name — are not yet complete, but it is a step forward that urges us toward development and a reasonable liberation from the shackles of the past, no matter how ancient it is. This is because history has its value and place, but the future also has its rulings. I recently visited Rome, the guardian of Roman history and its cradle. As is the case in Cairo, the abundance of monuments and attractions — and the crowds — in the "Eternal City" made me wonder if its officials are considering relocating the administrative capital to a nearby site. The cities of the world differ in architecture according to history and civilization; but Cairo has a special character as the capital that carries behind it an "administrative" legacy that has continued for more than a millennium. Today, it lives a new cycle of life that celebrates Egypt’s history and translates its future vision into reality, without neglecting its precious historical treasure.