There are so few world heritage sites connected to Aviation. Ideally this nomination will eventually evolve into a transnational nomination with the UK, the UAE, Singapore, and other nations where these early 'air stations' remain preserved.
Croydon Airport (UK)
Mahatta Fort (UAE)
Kallang Airport (Singapore)
1935 Map of Imperial Airways Routes
After the UAE procured their 2nd WHS in 2025, Al Mahatta Airport might be the next Sharjah site preparing their dossier. I believe ICOMOS in this case might be preferential to a narrowed UAE nomination focusing on the airport, while also being supportive of a transnational site.
For most visitors about 1 to 1.5 hours will be sufficient time at the Al Mahatta Aviation Museum. It's a short ride to Sharjah Fort (Al Hisn), which I simply took an exterior photo. Walking around the Souq Al Shanasiyah there is a small building that includes archeological remains of the Old Souk. We had lunch at the 'Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe - Sharjah' and then walked further down the Souk before arriving at the Sharjah Art Museum. I felt the 'Heart of Sharjah" is a perfectly fine (albeit small) cultural district, but does not add significantly to the nomination.
As the Emirate of Sharjah is particularly active in the last few years regarding cultural heritage, I expect we will be seeing more nominations in the coming decade.
Comments
No comments yet.