Karbala: The Al-Ukhaidir archaeological fortress was reopened after the completion of the first phase of maintenance and restoration work. The head of the General Authority for Antiquities and Heritage, Ali Obeid Shalgham, inaugurated the fortress in the holy city of Karbala. This project is part of the Ministry’s efforts to preserve archaeological sites and safeguard their cultural landmarks.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the inauguration ceremony was attended by the Director General of the Department of Maintenance and Preservation of Antiquities, Mohammed Al-Bayati, the Assistant Director General of the Department, Yasser Shaker, and the Inspector of Antiquities and Heritage in Karbala, Ahmed Hassan Jaber. Several officials from the Antiquities and Heritage Protection Police, along with specialists and those interested in archaeological affairs, were also present.
Shalgham emphasized that the completion of the first phase and the opening of the fortress are part of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Antiquities’ efforts to protect Iraqi cultural heritage. This initiative aims to rehabilitate archaeological sites and revitalize their presence on the cultural tourism map. He noted that protecting archaeological sites is a shared responsibility requiring the integrated efforts of government institutions, relevant authorities, and the local community to ensure their sustainability and preservation for future generations.
The maintenance and rehabilitation work was carried out in cooperation between the Department of Maintenance and Preservation of Antiquities at the General Authority for Antiquities and Heritage and the Engineering Affairs Department at the Ministry headquarters. This work included addressing several technical requirements of the site to contribute to its preservation and prepare it to receive visitors.
The Al-Ukhaidir Fortress is considered one of the most prominent architectural landmarks of Islamic civilization in Iraq. It is distinguished by its unique architectural design, fortifications, arcades, and halls, which grant it significant archaeological, cultural, and touristic value.