DOHA: Qatar’s Souq Waqif is one of the 19 contenders in the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture whose winners will be revealed in a ceremony to be held at the Museum of Islamic Art on November 24.
Souq Waqif has been described as a ‘revitalisation project, a unique architectural revival of one of the most important heritage sites in Doha… aimed to reverse the dilapidation of the historic structures and remove inappropriate alterations and additions.’
The 164,000 sq m souq which is home to around 500 shops has become a famous tourist attraction for the fusion of traditional and modern elements such as its sophisticated lighting system.
“In complete contrast to the heritage theme parks that are becoming common in the region, Souq Waqif is both a traditional open-air public space that is used by shoppers, tourists, merchants and residents alike, and a working market,” says a brief description of the project.
“This is the first time that the award ceremony will be held in a GCC country,” Shamsa Rashid, Communications and Outreach Member told the local media yesterday.
Ismailimail 