CCROM-ATHAR (Architectural and Archaeological Tangible Heritage in the Arab Region) is a regional conservation centre founded by ICCROM (International Centre for the Study of the Preservation and Restoration of Cultural Property), and the Government of the Emirate of Sharjah. ICCROM’s 27th General Assembly, convened in Rome in November 2011, decided to establish a regional office of ICCROM in Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates where it is based since its inception in 2012.
ICCROM-ATHAR Regional Conservation Centre in Sharjah is a continuation of ICCROM’s ATHAR programme, which has dedicated its activities since it was launched in 2004, to the protection of cultural heritage in the Arab region and to broadening access, appreciation and understanding of its rich history. Basing its philosophy, goals and activities on its wide knowledge and experience in the field of cultural heritage in the Arab region, ICCROM-ATHAR today is working to enhance the capacity of official heritage institutions to manage heritage sites, historic monuments and museum collections on a sustainable basis. These objectives are foreseen to be achieved through a series of regional educational and field activities including:
- Capacity building:
ICCROM-ATHAR’s professional training programmes aimed at enhancing conservation practices and recognition of professional accomplishments (through affiliation with university programmes);
- Consultation:
Support, co-ordination, facilitation and provision of technical advice when requested by the Arab states in the fields of conservation and management;
- Dissemination of information:
Sharing the outcome of the Centre’s experience and activities including research, experiences, publications from seminars, training manuals for professionals and teaching kits for teachers of the young;
- Symposia, workshops and seminars:
Bringing together the best cultural heritage thinkers to address current themes important in and for the region’s development goals.
- Outreach and advocacy:
Aimed at raising public awareness and support for good conservation practice, ICCROM-ATHAR award and other outreach activities target various audiences such as schools, the general public, and professional communities.
