Diriyah Gate Development Authority launches project to encode Diriyah history in Braille

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Updated 01 October 2022
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Diriyah Gate Development Authority launches project to encode Diriyah history in Braille

  • The project will help visually impaired people gain a deeper understanding of the history of Diriyah, the original home of the Saudi royal family

RIYADH:  The Diriyah Gate Development Authority has teamed up with the National Association of the Blind “Kafeef” to launch an initiative for the translation of Diriyah’s history into Braille.

The project will help visually impaired people gain a deeper understanding of Diriyah’s history.

Paper copies of the content printed in Braille will help strengthen participants’ emotional connection to their rich Saudi history and heritage.

The project reflects DGDA’s commitment to the visually impaired, and is aligned with the authority’s mandate to preserve and celebrate its culture and heritage.

The first part of the initiative runs until Oct. 15, and includes a course on Diriyah’s history for young men and women from “Kafeef.”

Supporting course materials were translated into paper and digital formats, including content on the year 850 — the year that Diriyah was established — as well as the At-Turaif district and the history of the First Saudi State.

Participants with the highest scores have since been selected to teach within the program itself, based on the level of their interest in Saudi history and their Braille skills.

DGDA is committed to working with “Kafeef” to provide support to participants, including paper and digital training materials, as well as lessons for registered participants, with an official certificate available on completion of the course.

The course is expected to foster a competitive, knowledge-based atmosphere that will help bolster the connection visually impaired individuals have to their heritage; strengthen their sense of belonging to their country’s past, present, and future; and instil a sense of community and collective investment in the country’s progress.

 

 


Interactive experiences bring stories of courage and patience to life at Prince Turki bin Saud Palace

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Interactive experiences bring stories of courage and patience to life at Prince Turki bin Saud Palace

RIYADH: At the historic Prince Turki bin Saud Palace in Diriyah, past and present converge as immersive experiences revive stories of courage, patience and resilience rooted in the era of the First Saudi State.

The palace is one of the key landmarks featured in the “Hal Al-Qusoor” program, a flagship initiative of Diriyah Season 25/26, drawing visitors eager to explore a site rich in cultural and social significance.

Prince Turki was born in the At-Turaif District of historic Diriyah in the late 12th century AH (18th century). He grew up in an environment shaped by courage, horsemanship and leadership, influenced by his father, Imam Saud bin Abdulaziz, the commander of the First Saudi State’s armies.

Located in the southern part of the At-Turaif District, the palace was constructed in the early 13th century AH and reflects the traditional Najdi architectural style.

Built using mud bricks, stone and tamarisk wood, the structure consists of two floors arranged around a central courtyard.

Its wide gates and multiple exits reflect both the architectural traditions of the time and the practical realities of life during that era.

As visitors move through the palace, they can imagine the discussions and strategic decisions that once took place within its walls and contributed to Diriyah’s resilience.

Today, interactive experiences enhanced by sound and lighting technologies bring these historical narratives to life, offering an engaging window into the past.

From private living spaces to formal reception and meeting halls, the palace presents a vivid picture of daily life during the First Saudi State, with architectural details that echo stories of bravery and steadfastness.

Diriyah Season 25/26 supports the vision of the Diriyah Gate Development Authority by reinforcing Diriyah’s role as the birthplace of the Saudi State.