Kom El Dikka
Situated in the heart of Alexandria and characterized by its traditional style of narrow winding streets, distinctive architecture, and unique location between the Graeco-Roman theater and Fouad Street – one of the oldest streets in the city; Kom el Dikka has a strong, powerful presence of its own. It is not only known for its picturesque architectural style, but it also bears a vast cultural significance as the birth place of Sayed Darwish, one of Egypt's most renowned composers. Acknowledging the cultural richness this area holds, a study which aims to revive Kom el Dikka was developed, focusing on three main aspects; the socio-cultural, the architectural, and the archaeological nature of Kom el Dikka. The study presented a number of proposals to utilize the heritage that the area possesses and turn it into a venue for cultural and artistic activities.
The rehabilitation of Kom el Dikka involves rethinking and planning the public space, as well as encouraging owners of cafés and other modest establishments to consider an extended or upgraded use of their facilities. The main piazza at the center of the district will be rehabilitated and turned into a large open space for creative and cultural activities such as music, performances, galleries, festivals and outdoor cafés. It will create an energetic exchange of experiences between locals, visitors and artists, presenting the Egyptian and regional contemporary arts in a traditional atmosphere. It is expected that the success of this activity would be a model to be replicated in other areas in Alexandria and Egypt.
The project of reviving Kom el Dikka, consists of four phases: the initial survey report and preliminary project, the final detailed project, the implementation phase, and finally evaluation and final report. Under the Support to Cultural Diversity and Creativity in Egypt program, Phase One has been completed, covering the necessary meetings, formation of teams, research work, site visits and meeting with residents.The findings of the research are documented in a preliminary report, which provides detailed information on the studies that have been carried out and proposals to revive the area, in addition to complementary surveys which covered structural and ownership studies of the buildings.
To view the initial survey report and preliminary study completed through Phase I of the project, please click here.