An effort to rediscover one of the most ancient sites in Yemen Italy to bring Baraqish to life [Archives:2003/09/Local News]

An Italian delegation composed of experts in excavation of ancient sites held a press conference in the National Museum in Sana’a last Tuesday 25th February 2002 on one of the most important projects of Italy in the country, the revival of the Baraqish site.
Italian Ambassador Mr. Giacomo Sanfelice Di Monteforte emphasized during the conference on the importance of bilateral relations between Yemen and Italy and their reflection on the project of Baraqish. He said that the continuity of Italian delegation’s activities concerning the revival of historical and ancient sites in the country are a major step forward in enhancing those relations. He said that an agreement was reached between the two countries in 1998 according to which an Italian monuments research center would be established in the National Museum, and also confirmed that the delegation’s work in the historical city of Baraqish is a success.
He also stated that this center would be a starting point for the delegation, which would carry out scientific research and explorations.
He also said that the resumption of the exploration in ancient Baraqish city came after nearly 10 years during which security was not well-established.
On his part, Professor Alessandro de Maigret, head of the Italian exploration delegation emphasized the great importance of the currently ongoing activities in terms of revealing the marvelous past of ancient civilizations. He said that the delegation has been working in Yemen since 1988 and that their role is not only to explore monuments and ancient sites, but to also train Yemeni cadres to gain experience in the field of excavation and ancient site explorations to ultimately turn the sites into tourism attractions that would be appealing for thousands of tourists all over the world.
The delegation is currently working in three sectors, the historical center, renovation of Braqish ancient Temple and the exploration in Tamn’e capital of Qataban. All those are implemented as one project jointly with a French delegation.

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