Alessandro Sebastiani

The third day at the Al-Ula World Archaeology Summit (AWAS) 2024 was as inspiring as it was thought-provoking, filled with powerful discussions and a spectacular conclusion under the desert sky. Mr. Peter DeBrine, Senior Project Officer for UNESCO, opened the day with a compelling address on the intersection of cultural heritage, identity, and local communities. His insights emphasized the essential role of community in sustaining cultural heritage, setting the tone for a day dedicated to exploring the integration of archaeology with the diverse identities and narratives of local populations.

Throughout the day, workshops provided an ideal forum for these themes, creating space for participants to share ideas on how archaeologists and local communities can partner to preserve and respect both tangible and intangible heritage. Discussions tackled the complexities of heritage ownership, conservation, and accessibility, underscoring that these cannot be one-size-fits-all solutions but must instead reflect and honor the identities of the people who inhabit these lands. One of the day’s recurring themes was how archaeologists and heritage professionals can amplify the voices of local communities in the interpretation and preservation of their heritage. This dialogue served as a reminder of the deep responsibility held by those working in archaeology to foster an inclusive approach.

To conclude the day, we ventured to Hegra, Saudi Arabia’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we could witness the majesty of the Nabatean tombs firsthand. Hegra offered a perfect culmination to the summit, not only for its historical importance but also for the setting that embodies the timeless beauty of Al-Ula. Our visit was unexpectedly graced by a dramatic weather change—a sudden rain and sandstorm that swept across the landscape. This rare, powerful desert storm lent a unique and humbling atmosphere to our closing moments, symbolizing the layers of resilience and unpredictability that have always defined these ancient lands.

As the storm subsided and we returned to Al-Ula, reflections from the summit continued to resonate. The AWAS 2024 underscored that the preservation of cultural heritage is not merely about safeguarding sites or artifacts; it’s about the fusion of history with the lives and identities of past, present and future generations. The voices of Al-Ula’s local communities and their stories are integral to this ongoing narrative, reminding us all that the past and present must converge in meaningful ways. In the days and years to come, may these dialogues lead to an archaeology that continues to honor, include, and elevate the diverse histories woven into our shared heritage.