MIA lecture series on Morocco’s archaeological heritage

The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) in Doha is hosting a series of lectures on Morocco’s rich archaeological past this autumn, aimed at engaging both Moroccan and Qatari academics and history enthusiasts in intellectual exchange about shared heritage.As part of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, Qatar Museums’ Archaeology Department will present two lectures on November 4 and 19 at the MIA Auditorium. It is free and open to the public who pre-register through the MIA website.Dr Asmae El Kacimi, assistant professor in the Islamic Archeology Department at the National Institute of Archaeological Sciences and Heritage in Rabat, will present "Revealing the Art of Colors in Bilad al-Maghrib: An Archaeological Investigation of Islamic Wall Painting (8th-14th Century)” Monday.Dr El Kacimi, an expert in Islamic Archaeology, will share insights from her extensive research on wall paintings from Bilad al-Maghrib, dating from the 8th to the 14th century. Her talk will explore the intricate relationship between these decorative elements and their architectural settings, focusing on technical and material aspects.Dr El Kacimi brings a wealth of experience from her work on various archaeological sites across Morocco, including the Roman Port Area in Chellah.On November 19, Azzedine Kara, director of the National Centre for Studies and Research on Underwater Heritage in Rabat and the Sidi Mohammed Ibnou Abdillah University in Fez, will present "Underwater Archaeology between Passion for Research and Responsibility for Safeguarding: Insight into the Moroccan Experience”.Karra, a renowned expert in underwater archaeology, will discuss Morocco’s rich maritime heritage. This lecture aligns with QM’s upcoming maritime research initiatives and promises to reveal the fascinating world beneath Morocco’s coastal waters. The session will explore recent discoveries, ongoing research, and the challenges of preserving underwater cultural heritage.