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See - Sada Elbalad
5 days ago
- General
- See - Sada Elbalad
All You Need to Know about St. Catherine Monastery: History, Court Ruling, Official Response
Rana Atef In recent hours, Saint Catherine's Monastery has drawn global attention following a court ruling concerning the ownership of its surrounding lands. There is no doubt that the monastery holds a special place in the hearts of Egyptians, not only for its profound historical and religious significance but also as a symbol of national heritage. Located in Sinai, the monastery continues to be a major destination for both religious and cultural tourism. History Saint Catherine's Monastery, whose official name is the 'Sacred Monastery of the God-Trodden Mount Sinai," was built by the order of the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I in 548–565 AD in order to house the monks that had been living in the Sinai Peninsula since the 4th century AD. The name of the monastery came after the Saint Catherine of Alexandria was martyred in the early 4th century AD. The monastery carries her name because its monks discovered her body on nearby Mount Saint Catherine in the 9th century AD, where it had been deposited by angels after her martyrdom. The monastery encompasses multiple structures, the most important of which is the Church of the Transfiguration of Christ the Savior, which itself contains nine smaller churches. One of these is the Church of the Burning Bush, from which God had spoken to the prophet Moses. Saint Catherine's Monastery also includes ten other churches, the monks' accommodations, a refectory, an olive press, ossuaries, a Fatimid mosque from the 12th century AD, and a library that boasts rare books and 6,000 manuscripts. The monastery's library, established between 527 and 565, is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the oldest continuously operating library in the world. It holds the second-largest collection of early manuscripts and texts in the world, surpassed only by the Vatican Library. Lagal Dispute The legal dispute began in 2015. Two days ago, the Ismailia Court of Appeals issued its ruling regarding the disputed lands in South Sinai, affirming the right of those affiliated with Saint Catherine's Monastery to utilize the monastery and its religious heritage sites, while maintaining state ownership of these locations as public property. The court ruled that the contracts between the local authority and the monastery regarding certain utilized lands must be respected, denying any encroachment. It also confirmed that the remaining disputed lands are natural reserves and public property of the state, which cannot be sold or acquired through prescription, and no contracts have been signed concerning them. What Does the Ruling Mean? Abdel Rahim Rihan, a member of the "History and Antiquities Committee" at the Supreme Council of Culture, told Asharq Al-Awsat that "there is absolutely no crisis regarding the court ruling; on the contrary, it is a victory for the value of antiquities and their preservation, and a triumph for us as Egyptian archaeologists. The ruling confirmed that the monastery and its associated lands fall under the Antiquities Law and are overseen by the Supreme Council of Antiquities. The monastery's residents have the right to use the land, but ownership remains with the state, as these are religious archaeological sites administratively affiliated with the Greek Church yet registered as part of Egypt's world heritage, owned by the Egyptian state". Rihan added that 'this refutes any claims that authorities will evacuate the monastery for development projects. Such actions are not possible with a registered heritage site.' He further explained that 'the ruling also clarified that there are remote lands far from the monastery for which the monks possess no ownership or usufruct contracts. The court ruled these lands fall under the jurisdiction of the nature reserves in South Sinai. Therefore, if authorities wish to do anything with them, they must obtain approval from the Nature Reserves Authority and the Ministry of Environment. In any case, these areas are completely distant from the archaeological zones and the monastery itself.' He stressed that 'However, both history and the court ruling confirm that this land is owned by the Egyptian state, with its protection guaranteed as a registered heritage site.' In addition, Egyptian Member of Parliament Ehab Ramzy, who was among the lawyers who represented the monastery earlier, told CNN Arabic that the recent court ruling regarding the conflict between the monastery and South Sinai Governorate has effectively ended a years-long legal battle. The court affirmed the monastery's right to use the land. He added to CNN Arabic that the court confirmed the monastery's lands are archaeological sites registered on UNESCO's World Heritage List, meaning they cannot be privately owned, but can be lawfully used, a position that aligns with both Egyptian and international law. He continued that the ruling has reinforced the legal and religious status of the monastery and has permanently closed the door on the dispute. Official Response On Thursday, the Egyptian Presidency reaffirmed its full commitment to preserving the unique and sacred religious status of Saint Catherine's Monastery, stressing that this status will not be compromised in any way, as it is an integral part of both Egypt's and the world's religious and spiritual heritage. Presidential Spokesman Ambassador Mohamed El-Shenawy stated that the recent court ruling represents a legal reinforcement of the monastery's distinguished status. He added that the ruling aligns with what President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi emphasized during his official visit to Athens on May 7, where he underlined the importance of safeguarding shared religious and historical heritage. The presidency also highlighted the deep-rooted, fraternal relations between Egypt and Greece, emphasizing the need to maintain and strengthen these ties in the interest of both nations, while reiterating that these historic bonds must remain untouched. After a few hours, in response to a query from the Middle East News Agency regarding the court ruling issued on May 28 concerning the lands surrounding Saint Catherine's Monastery, and the rumors circulating about the confiscation of the monastery and its affiliated lands, the official spokesperson for Egypt's Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that such claims are entirely unfounded. A full review of the court ruling reveals the following key points: 1. No Threat to the Monastery or Its Sacred Status The spokesperson emphasized that there is absolutely no infringement on Saint Catherine's Monastery, its affiliated archaeological sites, its spiritual value, or its religious cemeteries. In fact, this court decision marks the first legal codification of the monastery's status and a reaffirmation of the preservation of its sacred position. 2. Continued Usufruct Rights for the Monks While some additional sites fall within natural reserves and have contracts signed with local authorities, the court recognized the monastery's spiritual and religious importance, and therefore upheld the right of the monks to continue using the religious and archaeological areas. 3. Remote State Lands Confirmed The court ruling also identified some remote and uninhabited areas within natural reserves, far from the monastery, for which no documents of ownership or usufruct were presented. These lands have thus been confirmed as public property of the Egyptian state. The spokesperson stressed the importance of accuracy in reporting and warned against forming premature judgments without reviewing the complete text of the ruling. He also highlighted the need to preserve the deep, historical, and brotherly relations between Egypt and Greece, which stretch back centuries. On Friday, Dr. Badr Abdel Aaty, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Migration, met with European ambassadors in Cairo, where he provided a detailed briefing on the court ruling issued on May 28 regarding the lands surrounding Saint Catherine's Monastery. Abdel Aaty emphasized that the court ruling explicitly confirmed that there would be no infringement upon Saint Catherine's Monastery, its affiliated archaeological sites, spiritual significance, religious status, or monastic cemeteries. He noted that this is the first time a court ruling formally preserves the legal and sacred status of the monastery. He also referred to a phone call held earlier that day between President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, during which the President reaffirmed Egypt's full commitment to safeguarding the unique and sacred religious status of Saint Catherine's Monastery, with no compromise on that position. The Foreign Minister added that the ruling not only protects the monastery's religious and spiritual value but also ensures the continued right of the monks to use the monastery and the surrounding religious and archaeological areas. Abdel Aaty pointed out that efforts will be made to reach an agreement to settle the status of certain lands between local authorities and the monastery. He also stressed the need for accurate reporting and avoiding premature or misleading interpretations, especially in light of false rumors about the confiscation of the monastery and its lands. He reiterated the strategic importance of Egyptian-Greek relations, which are grounded in centuries of deep-rooted historical and fraternal ties. On Friday, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi reaffirmed Egypt's full commitment to preserving the unique and sacred religious status of Saint Catherine's Monastery and stressed that this status would not be altered in any way. The recent court ruling further solidifies this position, aligning with Egypt's long-standing dedication to safeguarding religious and ecclesiastical sites, as well as affirming the monastery's cultural, spiritual, and religious significance. Presidential Spokesman Ambassador Mohamed El-Shenawy stated that during a phone call with Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, President El-Sisi emphasized the strong momentum in Egypt-Greece relations, underscoring the mutual commitment to further enhancing the strategic partnership between the two countries in various fields, in line with their historical ties and to the benefit of both nations' peoples. The Presidency had earlier reiterated its unwavering commitment to preserving the sacred religious status of Saint Catherine's Monastery, emphasizing that this status will not be compromised in any way, as it is an inseparable part of Egypt's and the world's religious and spiritual heritage. Ambassador El-Shenawy also highlighted that the recent court ruling legally affirms the monastery's distinguished position and aligns with President El-Sisi's remarks during his official visit to Athens on May 7, where the President emphasized the importance of preserving shared religious and historical heritage. The Presidency underscored the importance of the close and brotherly ties between Egypt and Greece, calling for the preservation and enhancement of these historic relations to serve the mutual interests of both nations while reiterating that these long-standing bonds must remain untouched. read more 2 Most Inspirational Green Projects in Egypt AEW Dynamite, WWE NXT to Strive over Viewership Tonight Egypt Marks 70th Anniv. of 2011 Revolution, National Police Day In Depth: WWE NXT Halloween Havoc In Depth: AEW Dynamite, WWE NXT Tuesday Viewership Strive Videos & Features WATCH: Egyptians Break Ramadan Fasts in Matariya Videos & Features GrEEk Campus Hosts Jobzella Fifth Career Fair Videos & Features 3 Iconic Ramadan Songs of All Times Videos & Features Top 4 Destinations to Visit in Upper Egypt News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks
Arab News
06-05-2025
- Politics
- Arab News
The Druze experience … an opportunity for everyone to save Syria
Short Url I have been following the rapidly developing events in my beloved Syria over the past week with a heavy heart, especially concerned by the events unfolding in the south, where my family's roots stretch across no fewer than 10 villages and towns. In my academic journey, I have studied the dynamics of integration and divergence in the Druze community during the last half-century of the Ottoman era, from the northwestern edge of Syria near the borders of Alexandretta to Mount Carmel in historic Palestine and the Azraq Oasis in northern Jordan. This Druze community is more than 1,000 years old. It has survived the massive shifts that have unfolded in the region over this period: the succession of states, the rise of religious and sectarian groups and movements (some moderate, others extremist), several major wars, and various forms of colonization and occupation. Sensible decision-making is a pillar of this small, inward-looking community's resilience. The Druze have endured because of their realism, contentment, dedication to intracommunal solidarity and commitment to the truth and safeguarding of the brotherhood. Even the major powers that have nothing in common with the Druze (neither sectarian nor ethnic), whose doctrine grew out of Fatimid Ismaili Shiism, eventually understood that they had a vested interest in accommodating and respecting the community's priorities and concerns. Following the initial Ismaili schism that ended the sect's presence in Egypt, the Druze managed to find a place for themselves in the Levant. After the Sunni Ayyubid state replaced Fatimid rule in Egypt in 1250, it saw the utility of allying with the Druze for defending the Levant and Palestine from Crusader campaigns. Settling scores through collective retribution against innocent civilians is alien to Syria's culture and the spirit of Islam Eyad Abu Shakra This pragmatism, which transcended sectarian differences, was sustained. The small sect, whose members are known as 'Banu Maruf,' maintained its alliance with the non-Arab Sunni empires (the Mamluks and the Ottomans) that ruled the region in the centuries that followed. Indeed, they remained partners of the Ottomans until the First World War, after which the empire was replaced with foreign mandates and then independent states. The point here is that the Druze are not alien to the Arabs, Islam or the Levant. Even when they were offered a state of their own under the French Mandate, they chose to reject it, insisting on remaining an inseparable part of the larger Arab polity that includes all the regions in which Druze communities had a presence. These facts of geography and national and religious identity must be recognized by anyone who seeks to safeguard Syria's territorial integrity, unity and future. Otherwise, they will be swept away into the abyss of treason, excommunication and bloodshed. Watching the protest in Homs a few days ago, in which ignorant and unhinged mobs chanted that they 'want to exterminate the Alawites … to exterminate the Druze' was painful. It hurt because genocide is a criminal act that has no place in an ancient homeland striving to get back on its feet and build bridges, rather than raising walls of separation. Settling scores through collective retribution against innocent civilians is alien to Syria's culture and the spirit of Islam, which teaches us that 'no bearer of burdens shall bear another's burden.' This is not the Homs of Hashim Al-Atassi and other great national statesmen. Nor is it the Homs of Diq Al-Jinn, Nasib Arida, Nadra Haddad, Abd Al-Masih Haddad, Maurice Salibi, Abd Al-Basit Al-Sufi, Abd Al-Basit Al-Sarout … Steve Jobs (who was from the Jandali family) or his cousin Malek Jandali. No, this is not the Homs we love. It is not the town that we have been following keenly and whose suffering and pain, at the hands of the criminal thugs in Deir Baalbah, Al-Waer, Al-Khalidiyyeh and Baba Amr, left tears in our eyes. On the other hand, we continue to hear things that might calm the nerves of those eager to consolidate the new regime: 'No areas are off-limits to state legitimacy' and 'no special or exceptional cases.' In principle, there is no reason to disagree. However, consolidating the new regime means prioritizing firm foundations and a broad consensus, especially given the ambiguous posture of several international powers and Israel's ongoing security and military blackmail. Accordingly, there is no harm in giving open wounds time to heal, allowing minds and hearts to recover, trust to be built and state-building to accelerate. No one has an interest in ignoring fears or in risking the exploitation of these fears by foreign forces to serve their own agendas Eyad Abu Shakra The truth is, no one (first and foremost the state) has an interest in ignoring fears or in risking the exploitation of these fears by foreign forces to serve their own agendas. Political experience has taught us that relying on and seeking foreign support is often a losing, and potentially suicidal, bet for minorities. Conversely, pushing minorities into such gambles has always drawn foreign intervention and occupation. For those who are unfamiliar with the 'Eastern Question' — European efforts to 'protect' minorities in the Levant, the Balkans and North Africa — the repercussions of these historical episodes continue to influence our world to this day. Just as France made inroads in the Levant in the 19th century through sectarian and religious massacres between Christians and Druze in Mount Lebanon and between Sunnis and Christians in Damascus, France's colonial intervention in Algeria came under the pretext of protecting the Jews (specifically the Bakri and Bougna/Bushnaq families). Accordingly, we must come to terms, across the region, with the frailty of our position, both domestically and internationally. For international actors, we Arabs are the weakest players in the region. Regrettably, our states are the easiest to violate. Protecting the Druze does not keep the Israeli leadership up at night and the current Syrian regime has not been acquitted by Washington, nor has it received an open-ended mandate from the international community to do as it pleases in Syria. Accordingly, a little wisdom can prevent immense bloodshed … and give Syria a far, far greater chance of survival. Eyad Abu Shakra is managing editor of Asharq Al-Awsat, where this article was originally published. X: @eyad1949 Disclaimer: Views expressed by writers in this section are their own and do not necessarily reflect Arab News' point of view
Daily Tribune
04-05-2025
- General
- Daily Tribune
Al-Musaharati: A Living Tradition of Ramadan in Muharraq
TDT | Manama The Al-Musaharati, or the traditional Ramadan drummer, is far more than just a figure tied to the holy month in Bahrain's Muharraq. It represents a deep-rooted aspect of Islamic heritage that has survived the test of time and modernization. From its humble beginnings during the era of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) with Bilal ibn Rabah calling for suhoor (predawn meal), to the development of the practice in Egypt during the Fatimid era, this tradition has evolved over centuries. The practice, known for its unique rhythm and cultural significance, has reached its contemporary form, blending both tradition and modernity, especially in the Gulf region. Makkah: The Birthplace of Suhoor Announcements While the tradition of Al-Musaharati as we know it today developed in Egypt, its roots trace back to Makkah, the birthplace of many Islamic customs. In the early days of Islam, people would climb Mount Abu Qubais, announcing the call for suhoor across the city. The muezzins of Makkah would continue their Qur'anic recitations until the time for fasting arrived, marking the beginning of the fasting day. In his travels, the famous Andalusian traveler Ibn Jubayr (1183) described a practice in Makkah where the 'zamzami' muezzin would call for suhoor in a distinct style, similar to that of Al-Musaharati. He would call out from his minaret, accompanied by two young boys who echoed his words: 'Have suhoor, may Allah forgive you, for there is blessing in suhoor.' This tradition remained strong throughout the centuries and continues to be celebrated in Makkah as part of its Ramadan heritage. Geographically and culturally, Bahrain has always been closely tied to the broader Islamic world. As a key region in the Arabian Gulf, it absorbed many cultural and religious practices from Makkah and Medina. This includes the practice of Al-Musaharati, which flourished in Bahrain, especially in Muharraq, where the musaharati walks the narrow streets at night, echoing the chants once heard in Makkah: 'Wake up, eat suhoor, the blessed month of Ramadan is here.' The practice in Bahrain, like its predecessors, is deeply embedded in local Ramadan rituals. The musaharati's rhythm, often accompanied by a drum, calls on communities to prepare for suhoor and marks the beginning of the most sacred part of Ramadan. While it has become less common in some places due to modern technology, Bahrain's Muharraq continues to preserve this tradition, integrating it into the island's Ramadan festivities. As families in Bahrain strive to engage younger generations with the spirit of Ramadan, the traditional Ramadan drum has been reinvented for children. These modernized drums, often adorned with beloved cartoon characters, serve as a bridge between the old and new. Crafted from traditional materials like leather, they allow children to participate in the spirit of the month, keeping the cultural connection intact while appealing to younger sensibilities. These children's drums not only introduce the younger generation to the Ramadan customs but also enhance the festive atmosphere in homes and communities, encouraging kids to learn about their heritage through a fun, interactive experience. Despite the rapid advancement of technology, the figure of the musaharati remains one of the most beautiful symbols of Ramadan in Bahrain. More than just a traditional figure, the musaharati embodies the social cohesion and warmth of the holy month, fostering a sense of unity and communal spirit. As heritage tourism in Bahrain grows, the musaharati is poised to play a key role in promoting the island's cultural identity, offering tourists a unique glimpse into the timeless traditions of Ramadan. The Ramadan atmosphere in Bahrain, especially in Muharraq, is special. The musaharati wanders the narrow streets, calling out: 'Oh sleeper, awaken to the name of Allah... Wake up for suhoor, Ramadan is here!' In the past, the musaharati would address individuals by name, strengthening the bond between him and the community. The enthusiasm of children who would join in the process, banging their smaller drums, added to the sense of excitement. Families would reward the musaharati with money and gifts as a gesture of gratitude for his efforts during the holy month. Today, despite the role of the musaharati having diminished in certain areas, it is still revived during Ramadan festivals and cultural events across Bahrain. The figure of the musaharati can be found at heritage celebrations, in Ramadan gatherings, and even during tourism events where visitors can experience the rich traditions of Bahraini Ramadan. As Bahrain's tourism sector, particularly heritage tourism, continues to grow, the musaharati holds significant potential to enrich the tourist experience. Tourists can now: - Participate in heritage tours of Muharraq, where they can interact with the musaharati, listen to stories, and hear the chants that have echoed through the streets for centuries. - Experience the musaharati's role in Ramadan gatherings at hotels and cultural events, living the true essence of Bahraini Ramadan. - Attend live musaharati performances at cultural centers and during Ramadan festivals, offering a unique, immersive experience for those looking to discover the traditional customs of Bahrain. While the musaharati remains an iconic figure in Ramadan, maintaining the tradition requires financial and community support. Historically, the musaharati's payment was variable, based on the community's wealth and needs. In ancient times, his compensation was often provided in kind, with grain or produce. Over time, wealthy families would give more substantial gifts, while the poor were exempted. In Bahrain and the Gulf, the musaharati's earnings traditionally came through gifts and tips during the Eid festivities. However, in modern times, the decline in the practice due to technological advancements calls for new ways to support the musaharati, ensuring the tradition remains alive. This can include integrating him into cultural and tourism events or establishing community initiatives to preserve this important piece of Bahrain's Ramadan heritage.
Yahoo
01-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Azza Fahmy Arrives in London With a Flash of Gold, and Colored Stones
LONDON — Egyptian jeweler Azza Fahmy is adding even more sparkle to London's Burlington Arcade with a flagship that showcases the brand's latest culturally rich, interiors concept. The flagship replaces a smaller, temporary store that Azza Fahmy had occupied in the Mayfair arcade, and neighbors include a string of vintage watch and jewelry shops as well as Manolo Blahnik, Johnstons of Elgin and Ladurée. More from WWD Luxury, Streetwear Retailer End. Names Sebastian Suhl CEO Unilever Shuts Sustainable Skin Care Brand Ren Bicester Village Marks 30 Years With a New Campaign, and a Britpop Beat The brand, founded by the jewelry designer Azza Fahmy in 1969, has transformed the space with an interiors concept that debuted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in September. Elements include a lotus-inspired chandelier on the first floor and a colorful, handcrafted tapestry that nods to Ancient Egypt's temple columns, flowers and birds. The brand worked with Universal Studio, and tapped Middle Eastern designers for some of the pieces. Randa Fahmy contributed a brass curtain adorned with Fatimid, diamond-shaped geometric patterns and the chandelier with its lotus shapes, a symbol of rebirth in Ancient Egypt. Bokja, a Beirut-based design studio, created the tapestry for the VIP area, while the marble flooring is by Marmonil and draws on patterns from Nefersekheru's tomb in Luxor. There are also pieces from the Fahmy family, including books, images and art. The store carries the main line collections, and the high jewelry — necklaces and bracelets that twinkle with tanzanite, rubellite and emerald. The designs also showcase myriad varieties of gold filigree, and many are inscribed with lines from Egyptian love poetry. While the jewels may be utterly glamorous and romantic, they are also very practical. Fahmy's youngest daughter, Amina Ghali, designs the jewelry so that women can put it on, and take it off, themselves. She also tests every design on herself and the women in her studio and office. Collar necklaces are hinged so they can open and close easily, and without fussy clasps. Chain lengths can be adjusted and pendants are detachable. All of the earrings — even the elaborate ones — have been designed so that it's possible to wear them and talk on the phone at the same time. A large horizontal ring shaped like an eye, and inspired by one that King Tutankhamun wore, has ergonomic grooves for the fingers and smooth, curved edges to prevent it from catching on hair or clothing. Ghali said she wants clients to be comfortable and to wear the jewelry rather than keep it locked up. She also wants her customers to come home at the end of the day — or after a big night out — and be able to remove their jewelry themselves, 'rather than having to wake up someone at home and ask for help,' she said. Azza Fahmy has 14 further boutiques — mostly in Egypt — and selected wholesale distribution, including Bloomingdale's and That Concept Store in Dubai, 51 East in Qatar, Beymen Department Store at the Four Seasons Cairo and the Four Seasons in Amman. Best of WWD Macy's Is Closing 66 Stores in 2025 — Here's the List, Live Updates Inside the Demise of Lord & Taylor COVID-19 Spikes Elevate Retail Concerns
CairoScene
01-05-2025
- General
- CairoScene
Medieval Wall Fragments Found During Al-Sayeda Aisha Square Revamp
The uncovered wall sections formed part of Cairo's 12th-century fortifications under the Fatimid dynasty. May 01, 2025 Cairo Governor Ibrahim Saber announced the discovery of fragments of the city's medieval defensive wall during redevelopment works at Al-Sayeda Aisha Square. The square is being transformed into a pedestrian tourist corridor linking the Citadel to mosques like Al-Rifa'i and Sultan Hassan, with increased green spaces and a ban on vehicular traffic. Saber confirmed the imminent dismantling of the accident-prone Al-Sayeda Aisha Bridge, built in the 1980s and linked to 15 crashes in 2024 due to its hazardous curvature. Traffic will be rerouted via a new axis behind Al-Masbah Mosque, connecting to Salah Salem Road via a planned overpass. The first phase of the alternative route is nearing completion, with a second-phase bridge over the Civilisations Axis to follow. The uncovered wall sections formed part of Cairo's 12th-century fortifications under the Fatimid dynasty. No preservation plans were detailed, but the governor stressed the revamp prioritises pedestrian safety and heritage visibility.
