Architecural conservation project

Baladna Cultural Centre
Duration : 1996 - 1997
Funders : PAZ (Asamblea de Cooperacion Por la Paz)

Baladna Community Center (Al-Hashimiyeh School) was built in 1911, located in the town of Al-Bireh. The importance of Al-Hashimiyeh lies in the history of the life of the townas thousands of young men graduated from it before it was closed by the Israeli military government in 1993.

RIWAQ had supervised the renovation and rehabilitaion works ; the building is presently used as a cultural centre.

Mazare' Al Nobai
Duration : 4 months (Summer 97)
Funders : Canada Fund.

Mazare' Al Nobai is a small village to the north of Ramallah with a population of about 2000 people. It has a small historic centre with rich arhcitectural and decorative details. It was well known for its small festivals held in the Saha "Plaza" of the village.

Each clan in the village used to have its own diwan "Male reception room". The diwan of Al Dagher's clan is a beautiful building built in the beginning of the 19th century. It consists of a large room covered with a large dome.

There is a plaza in front of the diwan, which was a gathering place for the village's males. It was also the place for the festivals and special events.

RIWAQ with the coordination of the Palestinian Youth Union are directing and managing the renovation of Al Saha "Plaza", so as to be used as a youth centre.