Latest news with #culturaltraditions
Asharq Al-Awsat
12-08-2025
- Asharq Al-Awsat
Al-Baha Summer Season Revitalizes Heritage
Al-Baha Summer Season has breathed new life into the region's heritage by showcasing its unique environment and traditional way of life. The region's heritage villages and popular markets attracted a large number of visitors eager to immerse themselves in history and experience cultural traditions, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The villages and markets hosted a wide array of cultural events and activities, including folk games, traditional dances, and various hands-on workshops on sewing, embroidery, handicrafts, and Arabic calligraphy. Visitors also had the opportunity to learn about agriculture and construction, enjoy popular local dishes, and witness the recycling of traditional crafts. The programs also featured entertainment and educational competitions for children, ensuring a fun and engaging experience for all ages. With over 194 archaeological and heritage sites, including 72 heritage villages, Al-Baha Region is a significant cultural and economic driver. These sites, which have become popular tourist destinations, align with the Kingdom's national tourism vision by celebrating the region's historical legacy and hosting a variety of festivals throughout the year.
Yahoo
17-07-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Did Neanderthals have 'family recipes'? Study suggests butchery practices in ancient groups
Their meticulous examination of cut-marks on the remains of animal prey revealed patterns that cannot be explained by differences in skill, resources, or available tools at each site. New research into the butchery practices of Neanderthals living in two nearby caves in northern Israel between 50,000 and 60,000 years ago suggests surprisingly distinct food preparation methods, hinting at the possibility of early cultural traditions being passed down through generations. Despite living only 70 kilometers apart and utilizing the same tools and prey, the Neanderthals of Amud and Kebara caves appear to have processed their food in visibly different ways, according to a study led by Anaëlle Jallon from the Institute ofArchaeology at Hebrew University. The study, published in Frontiers in Environmental Archaeology, involved collaboration with colleagues Lucille Crete and Silvia Bello from the Natural History Museum of London, under the supervision of Hebrew University's Prof. Rivka Rabinovich and Prof. Erella Hovers. Their meticulous examination of cut-marks on the remains of animal prey revealed patterns that cannot be explained by differences in skill, resources, or available tools at each site. 'The subtle differences in cut-mark patterns between Amud and Kebara may reflect local traditions of animal carcass processing,' stated Anaëlle Jallon, a PhD candidate at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem and the lead author. She added, 'Even though Neanderthals at these two sites shared similar living conditions and faced comparable challenges, they seem to have developed distinct butchery strategies, possibly passed down through social learning and cultural traditions." Were Neanderthal butchery techniques were standardized Jallon emphasized the unique opportunity these two sites present: 'These two sites give us a unique opportunity to explore whether Neanderthal butchery techniques were standardized. If butchery techniques varied between sites or time periods, this would imply that factors such as cultural traditions, cooking preferences, or social organization influenced even subsistence-related activities such as butchering.' Both Amud and Kebara caves were occupied by Neanderthals during the winters, leaving behind not just food remains but also burials, stone tools, and hearths. The two groups relied on similar diets, predominantly gazelles and fallow deer, and used identical flint tools. However, subtle distinctions emerged from the archaeological record. Neanderthals at Kebara appear to have hunted more large prey and more frequently transported large kills back to the cave for butchering, rather than processing them at the kill site. Further differences in bone remains provided clues: at Amud, 40% of the animal bones were burned and highly fragmented, potentially due to cooking or post-depositional damage. In contrast, only 9% of the bones at Kebara were burned, less fragmented, and believed to have been cooked. Additionally, bones from Amud showed less evidence of carnivore damage compared to those found at Kebara. To investigate these variations in food preparation, the research team meticulously examined cut-marked bones from contemporaneous layers at both sites, using both macroscopic and microscopic analysis. They recorded various characteristics of the cut-marks, hypothesizing that similar patterns would suggest consistent butchery practices, while differing patterns would point to distinct cultural traditions. The analysis revealed that while the cut-marks were clear, intact, and largely unaffected by later damage, and their profiles, angles, and surface widths were similar (likely due to the shared toolkits), the cut-marks at Amud were more densely packed and less linear in shape than those at Kebara. The researchers explored several hypotheses for these observed patterns. They ruled out explanations based on different prey species or bone types, as the differences persisted even when comparing only the long bones of small ungulates found at both sites. Experimental archaeology also indicated that the variations couldn't be attributed to less skilled butchers or more intensive butchering to maximize food yield. Instead, the evidence strongly suggested that the differing cut-mark patterns were a result of deliberate butchery choices made by each Neanderthal group. One compelling explanation proposed by the researchers is that the Amud Neanderthals might have been pre-treating their meat before butchering. This could involve drying the meat or allowing it to decompose, similar to how modern butchers hang meat. Decaying meat is known to be more challenging to process, which would explain the greater intensity and less linear nature of the cut-marks observed at Amud. Another possibility is that differences in group organization, such as the number of individuals involved in butchering a single kill, played a role. However, further research is needed to fully explore these intriguing possibilities. "There are some limitations to consider,' Jallon acknowledged. 'The bone fragments are sometimes too small to provide a complete picture of the butchery marks left on the carcass. While we have made efforts to correct for biases caused by fragmentation, this may limit our ability to fully interpret the data." She concluded, "Future studies, including more experimental work and comparative analyses, will be crucial for addressing these uncertainties — and maybe one day reconstructing Neanderthals' recipes.' Solve the daily Crossword
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Travel + Leisure
08-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
The 10 Best City Hotels in Central and South America of 2025
City destinations in Central and South America impress T+L readers with their ability to preserve the rich cultural traditions of the past while embracing the kinds of ambitious innovations that will help carry tourism into the future. Though they serve as gateways to renowned cultural sights and spectacular natural environments, cities like Cuzco, Peru; São Paulo, Brazil; and Quito, Ecuador have plenty to offer in their own right—particularly for guests staying at the elite properties on this year's list of the best city hotels in Central and South America. Far beyond your standard lodgings, these World's Best Awards honorees demonstrate that there's so much more to a memorable stay than high thread counts and sweeping skyline views. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe—to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Nearly 180,000 T+L readers completed the 2025 survey. A total of more than 657,000 votes were cast across over 8,700 properties (hotels, cities, cruise lines, etc.). Hotels were classified as either resort hotel, city hotel, inn, or safari lodge based on their location and amenities, and they were specifically rated on the criteria below: Rooms/facilities Location Service Food Value For each characteristic, respondents could choose a rating of excellent, above average, average, below average, or poor. The final scores are averages of these responses. Peruvian and Argentinian properties often dominate the list of readers' favorites in Central and South America, but this year's group is more evenly spread. Colombia, Peru, and Brazil all represent with two honorees apiece, and the chosen hotels embody that alluring mix of past and present that World's Best Awards voters can't resist. Take the Colombia entries as an example. At No. 3 is Barranquilla Marriott, a thoroughly contemporary, almost minimalist option in one of the country's Carnival hubs. Then, at No. 6, comes the striking Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena. Housed in a meticulously restored 17th-century convent, the 124-room hotel wows on all fronts, but especially its hospitality. 'My daughter was married here and every time I come to Cartagena I stay here,' wrote one reader. 'Kudos to the staff for always going above and beyond.' Though it slips down one spot since its last appearance in 2023, Ecuador's lone entry, No. 5 Casa Gangotena, returns to the list on the strength of its 'most beautiful location in the historic district of Quito,' as one reader described. But it was another outlier—one that feels both rooted in history and thoroughly modern—that captures T+L readers' hearts and votes this time around. Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Scenic view from a rooftop lounge at the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo. When it opened in 2023, this 159-room and 35-suite stunner—one of just six Sofitel Legends around the world—breathed new life into an iconic French colonial building that once housed the Union Club, Panama City's premier social hub. (Notables like Albert Einstein and Queen Elizabeth II visited in its heyday.) A five-year renovation, guided by a local architect, brought back a number of period-appropriate design touches meant to reflect the original structure from 1917, while also weaving in distinctly Panamanian artwork and furnishings. But that legacy and all of those thoughtful flourishes wouldn't mean a thing to World's Best Awards voters if the hotel wasn't also delivering an exceptional stay. 'Fabulous location,' shared one reader. 'Service is over the top.' Guests who splurge for one of those suites are paired with a butler who can indulge requests both low-key (unpacking suitcases, attending to laundry) and luxe (flower-flecked bubble baths). And while there's plenty to explore on your own, especially in the surrounding historic district, the concierge team excels in arranging next-level experiences like helicopter tours or private sails. 1. Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo: Panama City, Panama Reader Score: 97.80 2. W Santiago: Santiago, Chile Reader Score: 97.78 3. Barranquilla Marriott Hotel: Barranquilla, Colombia Reader Score: 96.19 4. Four Seasons Hotel Buenos Aires: Buenos Aires, Argentina Reader Score: 95.83 5. Casa Gangotena: Quito, Ecuador Reader Score: 95.75 6. Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena: Cartagena, Colombia Reader Score: 95.53 7. Monasterio, a Belmond Hotel: Cuzco, Peru Reader Score: 95.20 8. JW Marriott Hotel Sao Paulo: São Paulo, Brazil Reader Score: 94.75 9. Miraflores Park, a Belmond Hotel: Lima, Peru Reader Score: 94.53 10. Tivoli Mofarrej São Paulo Hotel: São Paulo, Brazil Reader Score: 94.18
Arab News
04-07-2025
- Business
- Arab News
Falcon breeders auction to be launched in August
RIYADH: The Saudi Falcons Club has announced its schedule for the current year, featuring six major events spanning a total of 122 days in Malham, north of Riyadh, and other venues across the Kingdom. The event is designed to engage a broad audience interested in falconry, hunting and related cultural traditions. The season will start with the International Falcon Breeders Auction, running from Aug. 5-25, showcasing top local and international falcon farms. The Saudi Falcons Club Auction will run from Oct. 1 to Nov. 30, serving as a key platform for presenting top local falcons and providing a reliable economic avenue for falconers. The International Saudi Falcons and Hunting Exhibition, the largest of its kind in the region, will take place from Oct. 2-11. It will feature exhibitors from both within and outside the Kingdom, showcasing the latest equipment and supplies for falconry, hunting, travel, weapons and outdoor adventures.
Al Bawaba
21-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Bawaba
Mena Massoud reveals july wedding to Emily Shah with Egyptian-Indian traditions
ALBAWABA - Mena Massoud confirms July wedding in Italy with cultural traditions. Mena Massoud shocked his admirers by revealing the specifics of his impending nuptials to Emily Shah. He said the event will take place in Italy and will be tailored to Egyptian and Indian customs. He also discussed how their love story progressed. Mena disclosed the specifics of his nuptials, stating, "No, there isn't a wedding in Egypt. We've decided to get married in Italy. God willing, the wedding will take place next month. We'll take things one day at a time and have both an Indian and an Egyptian wedding before being married in a stunning location in Italy." Emily Shah Instagram profile "I'm an interviewer in general," he stated, referring to the specifics of his relationship with his spouse and their disparate personalities. She enjoys going out and interacting with people, but I like to stay at home and be by myself. That's my preference when it comes to socializing. My mood has improved because, as an actor, I need to be outgoing and socially engaged. She has been really helpful to me in this regard and absolutely encourages me to pursue it." He giggles and says, "She's been to Egypt once before, but hopefully, she'll return soon." When discussing the relationship between two distinct cultures, Mina stated that the greatest way for them to get to know one another is through food: "We truly enjoy each other's cuisine. She adores Egyptian cuisine, and I adore Indian cuisine. She says, 'I want falafel,' and she always eats falafel and fowl when she visits my mom's house. She likes my mom's filled vegetables as well. "I really like okra, bhindi (okra), but they make it in a different way, and lantal dal." He also lists his favorite Indian foods. "I love a lot of Indian food." He stated that they are considering collaborating on a creative endeavor in the future, adding, "We'll see if we can do something together... We were considering making an action film like Mr. & Mrs. Smith. Even in their everyday lives, despite their numerous differences, they enhance one another: "Of course, she exercises very seriously and exercises very seriously." She most likely visits the gym more frequently than I do. He wrapped it up by discussing their collaboration as producers, saying, "Believe me, we're producing together right now. She produces alongside me at my production company, so we work on many projects together." Mena Massoud and Emily Shah Announce Their Wedding Date Mena Massoud stated on the Egyptian ON channel's "With Mona El Shazly" program that he fell in love with Emily Shah while he was residing in Los Angeles. He went on, "We got to know one another for a time before we really started dating, and we met when I was living in Los Angeles. We got to know one another over the course of a year. She travels frequently because she is an actress and production worker, and her father is a well-known producer in India, just as I used to travel for work." Mena stated that Emily's kind disposition and certain characteristics, which made him feel at home among Egyptians, drew him to her. "What I enjoyed most about her is that she reminded me of Egyptians," he added, "yet her mother is American and her father is Indian." Her spirit and impressions are the same. She produces many items that I adore and is an excellent cook. I adore the Indian meal known as "Egyptian" okra, although they prepare it differently. The two families' relationship is marked by an atmosphere of love and respect for one another, which has strengthened their tie. Mina added, "From our side and her family's side, there is mutual respect and love, and that has helped the relationship grow stronger." He disclosed that the wedding will take place in late July. He mentioned that he had known Emily since 2018, before the premiere of his well-known movie "Aladdin," and that she had always been a fan of both him and the movie.
