King Abdulaziz University's "Echoes of the Past" Exhibition: Heritage and Artificial Intelligence
The "Echoes of the Past" exhibition, organized by King Abdulaziz University's College of Architecture and Planning – Geomatics Department, opens tomorrow. This pioneering initiative aims to integrate architectural authenticity with the latest digital technologies. The event is part of the university's ongoing efforts to foster the integration of academic education with practical application, and to highlight the aesthetics of traditional Saudi architecture from a sophisticated scientific perspective.
Integrating heritage with future technologies
This year's exhibition is distinguished by its unique focus on exploring the environmental and cultural dimensions of local architecture through the use of geospatial information systems (GIS) and artificial intelligence (AI) technologies. This represents a qualitative leap in heritage documentation methods, as the preservation of historical buildings is no longer limited to physical restoration but extends to include precise digital documentation that preserves the memory of the place for future generations. This approach reflects the high level of qualification of the college's students and their ability to adapt scientific knowledge to serve national heritage, highlighting the university's role as a beacon of cultural and scientific enlightenment.
Architectural diversity and national identity
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia boasts a unique geographical and cultural diversity that is directly reflected in its architectural styles, from the mud-brick architecture of the central region to the distinctive Hijazi architecture with its mashrabiyas (latticework windows) in the west, and the stone architecture of the south. The "Echoes of the Past" exhibition showcases examples of projects by students at King Abdulaziz University that embody this diverse architectural identity. The exhibition also includes interactive displays explaining the influence of the natural environment and climate on shaping these architectural styles, offering visitors a comprehensive educational and cultural experience that connects the past with the present.
Supporting the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030
The organization of this exhibition aligns perfectly with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, specifically those related to the Quality of Life Program and the strengthening of national identity. By linking academic knowledge with practical applications in the fields of sustainability and ecotourism, the university contributes to preparing a generation of architects and planners capable of addressing future challenges while preserving cultural roots. Documenting architectural heritage using modern technology is a fundamental pillar in revitalizing cultural tourism and transforming heritage sites into attractive destinations for visitors from both within the Kingdom and abroad.
An educational and interactive platform for the community
The exhibition is expected to draw a large audience, particularly from Jeddah schools, as it presents a golden opportunity to cultivate their early awareness of urban planning and geomatics. Dr. Rayan Sahahiri, the course instructor and exhibition supervisor, explained that this initiative aims to offer a modern interpretation of traditional architecture through spatial analysis tools, thereby contributing to the improvement of future urban development projects and enriching tourist experiences. The exhibition thus underscores its role as an educational platform that combines scientific research with student creativity, reinforcing the importance of heritage as a cornerstone of sustainable development.
