Algeria 
Egypt 
Israel 
Jordan 
Lebanon 
Libya 
Morocco 
Palestine * 
Syria 
Tunisia EU and Jordan Inaugurate Cultural Heritage Rehabilitation Projects at Mechareus and Abila
Through the project, the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) will carry out extensive rehabilitation and protection works at the two sites, including archaeological surveys, sites fencing, interpretive signage, and visitor infrastructure. Capacity-building activities will be undertaken in parallel for the personnel of the Department of Antiquities, the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, and university students from Jordan and Europe—ensuring sustainable sites management in the years to come.
The overarching objective of the project is to preserve and promote Jordan’s rich archaeological and cultural heritage while fostering inclusive economic growth through cultural tourism and community empowerment. In line with Jordan’s Economic Modernisation Vision and National Tourism Strategy, the project will leverage cultural heritage as a catalyst for sustainable development and enhanced communities.
It will, most importantly, engage local communities, including women and youth as well as Syrian refugees, in and around Abila and Mechareus, providing them with training and employment in cultural heritage preservation and tourism services. EU’s support for Abila and Mechareus is part of its broader commitment to inclusive, sustainable growth in Jordan and to fostering partnerships that value heritage as a key driver of identity, resilience, and economic opportunity.
Countries covered:
-
Jordan
