The Lebanese Cultural Minister Gaby Layoun, and the Italian Ambassador in Beirut, Giuseppe Morabito, have presented a restoration project for Chamaa Castle in southern Lebanon, which was damaged in the 2006 war with Israel. The work will be financed by the Development Cooperation office at the Italian Embassy, with funding of 700,000 euros.
Italian commitment to help rebuild southern Lebanon
The project, which was put out to tender, was presented by Natali Chahine, an architect. “We are honoured”, said Ambassador Morabito, to have this opportunity to support the restoration and enhancement of Chamaa. Because the town bears witness to Lebanon’s rich cultural heritage, which in turn reflects, with the religious pilgrimage centre of Nebi Chamaa, the country’s spiritual and religious values. And also because the project confirms the Italian Government’s commitment to the reconstruction of southern Lebanon”.
This commitment is evidenced by the many projects promoted and supported by Italian Development Cooperation. Worthy of mention is the 256,000 euro contribution for restoration work on the Roman frescoes in Beirut National Museum, a project that also envisages the enhancement and promotion of the restored artistic heritage.
