Authors
Myrto Tsitsinaki & Rut Ballesteros
The Royal Commission for AlUla

The Hegra Conservation Project aims to preserve Saudi Arabia's first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Led by Estia and aligned with Vision 2030, the initiative ensures Hegra's historical integrity and sustainable accessibility. By integrating modern conservation methods and fostering cultural tourism, the project highlights AlUla's role as a global heritage destination.

Let us talk about the Hegra Conservation Project: why was it decided to intervene in this archaeological site?

Hegra is Saudi Arabia's first Unesco World Heritage site, the crown jewel within the historical and cultural landscape of AlUla. The decision to intervene stems from a pressing need to preserve this extraordinary archaeological treasure. Hegra is not only an invaluable asset for its historical significance but also holds potential as a site of ongoing inspiration through cultural heritage and sustainable tourism. The project seeks to safeguard the site from environmental factors and human impact, ensuring its preservation for future generations. By integrating modern conservation methods with a respect for the site's ancient legacy, this initiative aligns with broader heritage conservation goals, making Hegra a central pillar of cultural tourism in Saudi Arabia.
AlUla is an area of over 20,000 km² and has numerous archaeological sites, including the Hegra site, which is full of monuments and tombs.

What are the guidelines, the timeframe, and the investments for this archaeological site?

The Hegra Conservation Project is being conducted in strict adherence to the highest international conservation standards, as set by International Council on Monuments and Sites and Unesco. A key focus is on minimal intervention, aimed at preserving the site's authenticity while utilizing non-invasive techniques. Materials used in the restoration process are carefully selected to be compatible with the site's historical context. The project’s timeline aligns with the Saudi Vision 2030 framework, with milestones structured to progressively restore and conserve the site over the coming years. Investments are substantial, with government backing ensuring that all necessary resources - from scientific research and material acquisition to specialized labor - are in place to facilitate the conservation process.

What does the Hegra and AlUla restoration project envisage?

AlUla encompasses a wide range of heritage sites, from early human settlements dating back to 200,000 BC, to the well-known sites of Dadan and Jabal Ikmah (2000–500 BC), and Qurh and AlUla Old Town (which flourished around 800 AD). The restoration of Hegra and AlUla, aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, forms part of a broader initiative to transform AlUla into a global cultural and heritage tourism destination. The project not only focuses on safeguarding the historical integrity of these sites but also enhances their accessibility and educational value. Our first step in Hegra is to conduct an in-depth condition assessment to understand the site's current state and identify areas in need of urgent conservation intervention. This research phase will lead to the creation of a detailed conservation plan tailored to the site’s needs, ensuring sustainable preservation. In addition to conservation, the project aims to contribute to local economic growth, foster international cultural exchange, and carefully balance the development of tourism infrastructure with respect for the site's historical significance.
The conservation plan will ensure sustainable preservation of the site
The Hegra Conservation Project aims to assess the conservation status of the Hegra tombs and monuments.

What factors were behind the choice of Estia and its group of Italian professionals who have been representing excellence in the restoration sector for years?

The selection of Estia was driven by their specialized expertise in stone conservation. With an extensive global portfolio of restoring culturally significant stone structures, Estia emerged as the ideal collaborator for the Hegra Conservation Project. Moreover, they assembled a consortium of multidisciplinary experts, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the site’s needs, which positions them as a key contributor to the project's success. Estia was selected through a competitive tender process led by the Royal Commission for AlUla, where they demonstrated their capacity to provide precise, sustainable solutions while safeguarding the site's integrity and heritage. Their proposed methodology, which combines traditional restoration techniques with advanced conservation technologies, guarantees the highest standards of quality and authenticity.
Authors
Myrto Tsitsinaki & Rut Ballesteros
The Royal Commission for AlUla
Product Lines
Products for renovation and restoration
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