
Mosquée Ezzitouna joins ALECSO’s new register
The Arab Organization for Education, Culture and Science (ALECSO) has officially launched its Register of Architectural and Urban Heritage in Arab countries, with the announcement made from Beirut. This initiative marks a significant step toward preserving the Arab world’s diverse architectural legacy and cultural identity. Among the newly listed sites is Tunisia’s historic Zitouna Mosque, one of several landmarks selected from 16 Arab nations. What sets this register apart is its focus on the creative dimension of architecture, recognizing both individual and collective contributions of Arab architects in shaping the region’s urban identity. It includes heritage-rich medinas that have retained their authenticity, as well as contemporary buildings that reflect evolving aesthetic values. A specialized committee of Arab experts carried out the selection process using unified criteria, ensuring technical accuracy and cultural relevance. The project is part of a broader effort led by ALECSO since 2016 to document, protect, and revitalize heritage sites, particularly in post-conflict settings, while also supporting legal reforms and local capacity-building in historic cities under threat.