On October 2nd, CBRL facilitated a workshop as part of our “Surfacing Zarqa: Heritage, Space and Youth in Jordan’s Industrial Heartland” project. Led by award-winning Jordanian author, Dr. Hisham Bustani, the workshop took place at the CBRL Amman Institute with young people from marginalised and refugee communities in Zarqa-Jordan to explore their city’s rich historical and geographical identity.
Utilising a participatory historical geography methodology, Dr. Bustani’s workshop engaged the participants, who are part of a broader initiative to reimagine Zarqa’s spatial and cultural identity, in research training, equipping them with the skills to investigate Zarqa’s urban history and contemporary realities. Their research will ultimately contribute to a co-created cultural archive that celebrates the city’s diverse heritage and supports its youth in reimagining their city’s future.
The participants were given an overview of CBRL Amman’s history by Firas Bqa’in, the CBRL Amman Operations Manager, who highlighted CBRL’s long-standing role in fostering interdisciplinary research and its contributions to cultural and academic exchange in Jordan and the wider Levant region.
Following the workshop, participants had the opportunity to tour the CBRL library, guided by Rudaina Momani, CBRL Amman Librarian, and Eman Shahin, CBRL Amman Archivist. They explored the CBRL’s library and archives, including its renowned map collection, which offers valuable insights into the historical geography of Jordan and the region. CBRL library’s extensive collection of books, journals, and archives will also aid them in their upcoming research.
The “Surfacing Zarqa” project, led by Dr. Sarah Linn from Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU), aims to foster a sense of belonging for communities in Zarqa. The project will culminate in the development of a multi-modal public space that encourages social and political dialogue. Cultural exchange events will also be a key component, offering a platform for young people to connect with Jordanian traditions and engage in meaningful discussions about their future.
As part of the ODA International Interdisciplinary Research Projects 2024, “Surfacing Zarqa” exemplifies how heritage can be harnessed to address modern challenges. By empowering youth to take ownership of their city’s narrative, the project not only enhances their research skills but also promotes social cohesion and resilience.
CBRL continues to play a pivotal role in supporting projects that bridge academic research with community development, ensuring that research benefits local communities while contributing to broader knowledge about Jordan and the Levant.
Find out more about this project here
