Madrid, Spain – A six-day cultural event titled "Yemen: A Journey to the Gates of Arabia" was inaugurated in the Spanish capital, Madrid, highlighting Yemen's rich history, cultural heritage, arts, and civilization. The exhibition drew the participation of Yemeni, Arab, and European officials and diplomats. The event was attended by the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Mutia Dammaj, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mustafa Al-Nu'man, and Yemen's Ambassador to Spain, Aws Al-Aud, alongside several Arab and foreign ambassadors. The initiative was organized by the "Masarat" Foundation and hosted by the "Casa Árabe" (Arab House), affiliated with the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Madrid. The program featured presentations on Yemeni history, cultural and natural heritage, as well as Yemeni films, music, and cuisine. Diplomats, researchers, and travelers shared their memories and impressions of Yemen, a nation described during the event as the "Gateway to Arabia" and "Arabia Felix." The exhibition explored significant Yemeni and Andalusian historical figures, including Al-Samh ibn Malik al-Khawlani, Abd al-Rahman al-Ghafiqi, and Muhammad ibn Abi Amir. It also delved into the influence of the Arabic language on Spanish and Portuguese, and showcased the legacy of the Sabaean civilization, ancient incense and trade routes, and historical dams. Dr. Mohammed Jumaih, Yemen's Ambassador to UNESCO, presented key aspects of Yemen's cultural and natural heritage, including World Heritage sites and intangible cultural heritage elements registered with UNESCO, along with nominations for future inscription. Jumaih stated that visual presentations and recordings reflected the richness of Yemeni culture and the diversity of its arts, which continue to impress global audiences. He noted that the event revealed the significant emotional connection many Europeans who have visited Yemen maintain with the country. Jumaih further explained that several foreign participants emotionally recalled their memories of Yemen, expressing longing for "the land of poetry, coffee, arts, literature, and great history," as he put it. |
