Exploring New Horizons at Al Nabi Musa Shrine:  Architecture Dialogue 

 A Vision for the Future August 7, 2024 The historic Shrine of Al-Nabi Musa recently came alive during a dynamic two-day workshop with architectural engineering students from Al Quds University. Their innovative ideas revealed exciting opportunities to enhance the shrine, adding new attractions while preserving its legacy. Beginning with a vision to enhance Al-Nabi Musa shrine and attract more visitors, through a series of cultural initiatives and regular tours , Sharek came upon a unique idea: an on-site workshop for architectural students to develop innovative ideas for promoting the shrine. This initiative aimed to connect students with the historic site and to engage the youth in its development.

Beginning with a vision to enhance Al-Nabi Musa shrine and attract more visitors, through a series of cultural initiatives and regular tours , Sharek came upon a unique idea: an on-site workshop for architectural students to develop innovative ideas for promoting the shrine. This initiative aimed to connect students with the historic site and to engage the youth in its development.


collaborated with Al-Quds University and the Palestinian Architects Association to involve architectural students in the workshop. Following brainstorming and shaping the goals of the workshop, the professors at Al-Quds University began a thorough process to select top students to participate in the workshop. The students participated in two engaging Zoom meetings: the first, led by Sharek and their partners, gave an introduction to the shrine and the workshop goals. The second session laid out the detailed agenda of the workshop and what students could expect, helping them prepare for their upcoming projects. Innovative Ideas in Action The workshop began with a guided tour and engaging historical storytelling. Students were then divided into four working groups— architectural design, photography and content creation, storytelling and operations, and restoration—to work on revitalizing the Shrine from different aspects. The goal for these projects was to develop strategies for how to enhance and promote the site, while sustaining it and making it to a vibrant hub for community engagement. Over the two days, the students were deeply engaged with their projects and with the future plans of the shrine. Through dedication and great teamwork the students reached impressive results in a short time.

 

1.  The architectural design group proposed several structural enhancements, including installing air conditioning in enclosed areas, adding seating areas and water fountains throughout the site, and implementing effective sun shading in the open spaces.
2. The storytelling and operations group proposed involving local Bedouins to host workshops for visitors and tourists, teaching traditional cooking and sewing. Since the Shrine is also a place for recharging, this group also proposed adding camping facilities and various activities around the site.
3. The restoration group suggested preserving the historic charm of the Shrine using materials and styles that align with the Shrine’s traditional look and feel. They also suggested replacing the added lighting and speakers with options that better align with the site’s classic aesthetic.
4. The photography and content creation group suggested different social media strategies, including campaigns and creating video reels, to increase visibility of the shrine and attract a diverse audience.

A Bright Future Ahead:

On the last day, each group presented their project in the presence of our partners from the EU, UNDP/PAPP and the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious affairs, showcasing their innovative ideas and demonstrating the shrine’s potential, through collaborative and youthful creativity. The students' proposals highlighted the shrine’s potential for transformation while preserving its heritage. Their vision aims to turn the shrine into a vibrant center for community and cultural events, blending tradition with modern innovation. This approach promises to strengthen connections to the site and ensure its lasting care and relevance.

This event was organized by Sharek Youth Forum in collaboration with Al-Quds University and the Association of Architects in Palestine, through the "Support to Development of Cultural Tourism" project, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme/Programme of Assistance to the Palestinian People in partnership with the Ministry of Awqaf and Religious Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, and with funding from the European Union.