Beirut: Minister of Culture Dr. Ghassan Salam© asserted that despite the ongoing Israeli war and daily attacks against Lebanon, the country's cultural identity remains largely unaffected. Cultural life in Lebanon continues to flourish and exude creativity despite these adversities.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Dr. Salam©, in an interview with the Chinese Arabic-language channel CGTN, articulated that cultural activities such as theater, painting, and cinema in Lebanon are driven by the private sector and civil society. He highlighted the resilience of Lebanese society, which has consistently shown its ability to produce and create even in challenging times.
Dr. Salam© elaborated that despite the ongoing conflict and bombings, Lebanon witnesses daily cultural events, including new exhibitions, theatrical performances, and films. He underscored the vibrancy of the country's cultural life irrespective of its security challenges. He further accused Israeli attacks of deliberately targeting archaeological sites, specifying the damage to Beaufort Castle (Qalaat Shamaa) and the Nabatieh Market, both significant heritage sites.
He pointed out that the Ministry had restored Beaufort Castle before the war, but one of its domes was destroyed during the raids. The Nabatieh Market, renowned for its historical buildings, also suffered damage, prompting immediate technical studies for restoration post-attacks. Dr. Salam© additionally mentioned the harm inflicted on the Al-Manshiyya historical building in Baalbek.
The Minister highlighted Lebanon's wealth in cultural heritage, boasting over ten thousand archaeological sites within its borders. He concluded by emphasizing the responsibility to protect this heritage, especially during times of war and conflict, as the land's historical significance stems from the succession of various civilizations and empires.