05 June 2015
RIYADH: The third and final phase of the almost SR20 million revamp of the Al-Majma historic district to boost tourism in downtown Riyadh has started. The massive project is being carried out by the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) in collaboration with Al-Majma municipality. The government has allocated SR7 million for the third phase. The second and first phases cost SR4.9 million and SR6.8 million, a local municipal official said recently.
He said the third phase includes paving lanes at the site, restoring the fronts of buildings and tarring of major roads. There would also be restoration of the local castle, balconies and walls; installation of electricity and lighting; construction of a restaurant; and erection of benches. Moreover, Al-Rabia palace would be transformed into a museum with a number of halls to display different time periods, and the restoration of the old Ahmed Al-Sani school. Al-Majma has recently become a major attraction for tourists, who have flocked to some of its completed developments.
The sights include Monekh Mountain Observatory, the oldest remaining building in the town. According to the SCTA, the observatory was built in 1426 CE. However, its internal tower known as Al-Casbah was built before that year. The redevelopment plan includes a project to restore and match buildings and homes in the area with the revamp taking place. This included roads and pavements.
RIYADH: The third and final phase of the almost SR20 million revamp of the Al-Majma historic district to boost tourism in downtown Riyadh has started. The massive project is being carried out by the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities (SCTA) in collaboration with Al-Majma municipality. The government has allocated SR7 million for the third phase. The second and first phases cost SR4.9 million and SR6.8 million, a local municipal official said recently.
He said the third phase includes paving lanes at the site, restoring the fronts of buildings and tarring of major roads. There would also be restoration of the local castle, balconies and walls; installation of electricity and lighting; construction of a restaurant; and erection of benches. Moreover, Al-Rabia palace would be transformed into a museum with a number of halls to display different time periods, and the restoration of the old Ahmed Al-Sani school. Al-Majma has recently become a major attraction for tourists, who have flocked to some of its completed developments.
The sights include Monekh Mountain Observatory, the oldest remaining building in the town. According to the SCTA, the observatory was built in 1426 CE. However, its internal tower known as Al-Casbah was built before that year. The redevelopment plan includes a project to restore and match buildings and homes in the area with the revamp taking place. This included roads and pavements.
© Arab News 2015
