The Ministry of Interior is implementing the "Place of History" initiative in Riyadh to mark the founding day
In a move reflecting a deep connection to historical roots and pride in national identity, the Saudi Ministry of Interior completed its unique "Place of History" initiative for the second consecutive year. This initiative coincides with the Kingdom's celebrations of its Founding Day, and the Ministry's first headquarters in Riyadh, which opened in 1957, was chosen as the venue for this important heritage event, showcasing the evolution of the security institution over the decades.
Reviving the institutional memory of the state
This initiative gains its significance from the fact that it transcends mere traditional celebration, delving into the depths of the Kingdom's administrative history. The building hosting the events stands as a living testament to a pivotal period in the history of the modern Saudi state, specifically the transition and establishment of institutional government work in Riyadh. The implementation of this initiative comes in accordance with the directives of His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Nayef bin Abdulaziz, Minister of the Interior, and aligns with the keen interest of the wise leadership—may God support them—under the guidance of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz, and His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, in preserving national heritage and highlighting historical landmarks.
A realistic simulation of the beginnings of security work
Through its "History Site" initiative, the Ministry of Interior aimed to provide visitors with a rich experience, featuring a detailed simulation of the work environment in the first administrative building. This experience allowed visitors to immerse themselves in the atmosphere of the early days of government operations after the Ministry's headquarters moved from Mecca to Riyadh. These cultural activities aim to preserve national memory and connect current generations with their rich past, illustrating how the security system was managed during that era and how it evolved to reach its current state of technological and administrative advancement.
Linking the roots of the founding and the modern renaissance
The ministry explained that the philosophy behind choosing this historical site is based on a profound vision linking two intertwined chapters in the Kingdom's history: the first being the firmly established foundations of the first Saudi state, which we celebrate on Founding Day, and the second being the beginnings of the modern renaissance, represented by the construction of the ministry's first government building in Riyadh with the launch of institutional work in 1952. "Security" forms the essential link between these two phases, serving as the steadfast pillar upon which the state was built to ensure the stability of its people and the preservation of property and developmental achievements.
National and cultural dimensions of the initiative
The "Place of History" initiative's objectives extend beyond mere documentation to encompass broad cultural and social dimensions. It aims to prepare and restore archaeological and heritage sites associated with the work of the Ministry of Interior, transforming them into beacons that tell stories of sacrifice and nation-building. The event witnessed a wide attendance of officials, intellectuals, and history enthusiasts, underscoring the initiative's success in creating a cultural movement that highlights the stages of administrative development in the Kingdom and reinforces values of belonging and loyalty to the nation and its leadership, while recalling the tremendous efforts exerted to establish security and safety throughout the country.
