A COMPREHENSIVE rehabilitation and development strategy for historical temples in Barbar was approved by Bahrain’s largest municipal council, as part of efforts to preserve heritage sites in the kingdom.
The proposal, unanimously approved by the 12-member Northern Municipal Council, also aims to boost Bahrain’s cultural and heritage tourism, while also highlighting civilisations that existed in the kingdom.
It was tabled by area councillor Dr Sayed Shubbar Al Wedaie.
The site contains the remains of three temples from the Dilmun era. Historical documents prove that the first temple dates back 3,000 years, while the second was constructed 500 years later and the third temple was built between 2,000 and 2,100BC.
“The site in Barbar hasn’t received enough attention, we need to protect the temples from climate change and preserve their features from deterioration and damage,” said Dr Al Wedaie.
“We have submitted a proposal to study a development project in partnership with the private sector to protect the site. This includes construction of a building that covers the main site of the temple to shield it from extreme weather and climate change.
“Appropriate facilities and utilities must also be developed at the site to ensure those interested – such as intellectuals, artists and tourist delegations – can visit them comfortably.”
Councillors proposed allocating space for private parking of vehicles in addition to a rest stop for visitors as well as a special location for cultural meetings and activities. They also suggested the construction of a ‘miniature heritage village’ where locally produced palm frond products can be displayed in addition to other cultural activities.
Dr Al Wedaie highlighted concerns raised by cultural and heritage experts about the impact of climate change on historical sites.
“The main features of the site could erode due to exposure to sun and rain, while the walls and structures may degrade over time,” he said.
“Failure to provide the required protection could lead to tampering and theft of the heritage features.”
Councillors claimed that 29,950sqm of land belonging to the government in Barbar lacked adequate protection, security, CCTV cameras and lighting. “There is a lack of proper infrastructure and roads leading up to the site, while the entrance is unremarkable,” he added.
“We have proposed collaborating with the private sector to develop a comprehensive strategy to preserve the site and develop it further.
“It is of dire importance to strengthen the security around the site to prevent encroachments and theft of its components.
“Work must be carried out to submit a proposal to the Cabinet to include the plan in the national budget within the strategic development projects for the years 2024 to 2026.
“Necessary steps must also be taken to register the temples on the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (Unesco) World Heritage List.”
Councillors unanimously approved the proposal which will now be referred to Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Minister Essam Khalaf for review.
Archaeologists from the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (Baca) had earlier indicated that heritage sites in Saar, A’ali, Barbar, Halat Bu Maher, Qal’ah, Al Sayah and Hawar Islands had already suffered varying levels of deterioration and need urgent protection.
Baca Museums and Antiquities director Dr Salman Al Mahari said desertification, strong winds, rising temperatures and sea levels had altered the chemical properties of materials at these sites, causing visible damage.
Seawalls and overhead shelters were among solutions proposed by experts to protect archaeological sites.
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