Legendry
of Petra
FORWARD BY HER MAJESTY
QUEEN NOOR
Jordan, our beloved country whose history spans 9.000 years, is
an open museum that prides itself on the diversity of cultures
that emerged, thrived and coexisted on its land. Jordan
continues in this tradition of cross-cultural exchange through
openness and interaction to remain, as His Majesty King Hussein,
has always wanted it, a hub of cultural and educational activity
in the heart of the Arab World linking the Asian, European and
African continents.
We
have always sought to encourage initiatives undertaken by our
Jordanian Institutions, public and private, including those
initiatives that highlight the facets of our great history, and
the unique and eternal archeological sites. From this premise,
we have supported and encouraged the founders of Ruwaq Al Balqaa
in Fuhais, scince it was launched seven years ago, and their
efforts to put together a book on Petra that would include
paintings of the Rose Red City by the internationally renowned
Egyptian artist Dr. Farghali Abdel Hafiz as well as photographs
by Mr. Khaldoun Daud of Ruwaq Al Balqaa.
Paintings by David Roberts were among the very first artistic
documentation to record the glory and beauty of Petra, and now
we have this modern interpretation of Petra by two Arab artists
to another element to the enormous variety of artistic works on
Petra,
which will continue to inspire artistic creations.
It gives me pleasure to thank all those who have worked on this
book, which I hope will be actoninuous link in the complete
chain of work to promote and introduce our rich heritage culture
to the world and will further our efforts to enhance
international cooperation and exchange.
