Abu dhabi: Emirati writer Nasser Al Dhaheri has released his latest book, “Guardians of Time and Cities,” published by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre. The book is available in three languages: Arabic, English, and French.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the book explores the role of clocks in cities worldwide, serving as witnesses to history and enduring symbols in collective memory. Spanning 610 pages, it guides readers through approximately 120 countries, showcasing famous and beautiful clocks from Japan to the United States. Al Dhaheri goes beyond documenting their forms and locations, delving into the stories behind them and highlighting the civilizational, cultural, and artistic transformations they represent.

The book examines the evolution of clock design and function, revealing how clocks have transcended their practical purposes to become integral elements of historical architecture. Clocks adorn towers and squares, becoming part of a city’s identity and visual memory. Al Dhaheri revisits the history of clock invention and manufacturing, acknowledging the scientists and innovators who advanced time-measuring instruments across different civilizations and eras.

The documentation extends beyond technical aspects, exploring the cultural, aesthetic, and intellectual dimensions of time and its measuring instruments. The book delves into the role of time in religions, cultures, literature, and arts, examining how societies have perceived and symbolized time in their daily lives.