Riyadh’s Historic Buildings Saved from Collapse Thanks to Crown Prince’s Funding
In a remarkable display of preservation efforts, several historic buildings in Jeddah that were on the brink of collapse have been rescued. The Ministry of Culture spearheaded this project, with personal funding from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency on Thursday.
The ministry highlighted the significance of these “architecturally important” structures, which were part of the Historic Jeddah restoration program. The crown prince’s generous donation of SR50 million ($13.3 million) played a crucial role in saving these buildings from deterioration.
The Historic Jeddah district boasts over 600 buildings, including 36 mosques and five marketplace sites. These locations hold immense historical importance, serving as crucial hubs for Muslim pilgrims in the past. The ongoing restoration and renovation efforts aim to preserve the rich history of Hajj from the early days of Islam.
Under the direct guidance of the crown prince, five specialized companies in Saudi Arabia undertook the restoration work. Skilled technicians with expertise in historic preservation supervised the process, ensuring that the district’s unique design and urban characteristics were maintained.
Among the rescued buildings are properties belonging to Jeddah families, with archaeological features dating back centuries. The successful preservation of these structures stands as a testament to the commitment to safeguarding Saudi Arabia’s cultural heritage.