Amidst a high-profile gathering of archaeology experts, journalists, media representatives, and a large crowd of archaeology students, the Zahi Hawass Foundation for Antiquities and Heritage organized a major educational lecture titled "Guardians of Heritage at the Nation's Gateways: The Journey of Preserving Egyptian Antiquities Through History."The event took place yesterday evening, Monday, at the Prince Taz Palace Creativity Center.
The lecture was delivered by Dr. Moamen Saad Mohamed, Director General of the General Department of Archaeological Ports Control. The session witnessed immense engagement from the audience as Dr. Mohamed highlighted the "unknown soldiers" who serve as a bulwark against attempts to smuggle Egypt's history. He shed light on the historical and legislative evolution of antiquity protection, dating back to the era of Muhammad Ali Pasha and extending to the present day.
Dr. Moamen Saad captivated the attendees with a "behind-the-scenes" presentation showcasing the most famous smuggling methods and innovative forgery techniques that have been thwarted. He explained the significant technological challenge the department faces, utilizing the latest technologies to detect counterfeits and counter the increasingly sophisticated methods used by forgers. The lecture also featured a showcase of the most prominent artifacts that the administration successfully intercepted and recovered before they could be smuggled out of the country.
Archaeologists and students in attendance expressed their deep appreciation for the Zahi Hawass Foundation’s initiative to spotlight the "invisible" yet vital role of the nation’s archaeological ports. They emphasized that the lecture significantly raised public awareness regarding the Egyptian state’s efforts to preserve its cultural assets and national memory.
This seminar is part of a series of events spearheaded by the Foundation to bridge the gap between the Egyptian public and heritage protection efforts. It underscores that safeguarding antiquities is not merely an institutional responsibility but a national duty shared by all. The event concluded with an open discussion where Dr. Moamen Saad addressed inquiries from students and researchers concerning legal frameworks and international conventions that support the protection of cross-border global heritage.
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