Fuheis, Sept. 1 (Petra) — The 33rd edition of the Fuheis Festival
showcased the city’s tourism and archaeological heritage,
particularly the architectural style of its arches, which later
became a stage for artistic events, and Dart Hamza, which hosted
people with disabilities to integrate them into festival activities
and showcase their artistic talents.

The festival drew crowds to the Khaled Muneizel platform at the Greek
Orthodox Church Museum, where the city’s storied past blended with
decades-old heritage buildings, reflecting the authenticity of its
old houses and drawing visitors’ attention.

In remarks to “Petra” Tuesday, several festival attendees said
Fuheis, like other Jordanian cities, holds many historic buildings,
churches and arcades, some dating to the early 20th century.

The visitors noted that the festival gave the city cultural and
touristic prominence and had a “positive” impact on the community by
strengthening a sense of belonging and pride in identity, in addition
to boosting the local economy.

Alida Madanien, head of the Heritage House for Arts Association in
Fuheis, said the festival presented a series of Jordanian narratives
across cultural, tourism, heritage and artistic fields, documenting
authentic Jordanian heritage and the figures who left a clear mark on
building and developing the Jordanian state.

She said the festival “prominently” involved women, particularly in
preparing traditional dishes and displaying handicrafts, among other
activities showcasing authentic Jordanian heritage.

She added that the festival helped highlight beauty of Fuheis and its
heritage buildings and spotlighted its customs and traditions, making
it an “key” destination for visitors and tourists.

She said the diverse activities created an atmosphere of joy and
interaction, blending authenticity with modernity and bringing
happiness to residents and visitors from various regions.

Yasser Akroush, owner of Dart Hamza, said the festival represents a
“crucial” national milestone in Jordan’s history and deserves support
for the national, heritage and cultural identity, which presents
Jordan’s image as a country of history, civilization and openness to
the world.

During its around decade-long participation in festival, he said Dart
Hamza has offered traditional dishes, empowering Jordanian women and
preserving national heritage.

He added that the idea behind the house grew out of the experience of
his son, Hamza, who has autism, aiming to build his capabilities and
integrate him into society away from isolation.

He said people with different abilities possess “outstanding” skills
and potential, noting that the house, which was restored and
converted into a community center, is open free of charge year-round
and hosts cultural, artistic, musical and poetry activities,
providing a space for learning, interaction and community
participation.

Meanwhile, Elin Samairat, president of the Young Women’s Christian
Association in Fuheis, said this year’s festival was distinctive,
blending past and present as part of the Jordanian narrative,
reflecting diverse cultures and the customs of Fuheis and Jordan, and
giving women the opportunity to display and market homemade products
at bazaars held throughout the festival.

//Petra// NQ