France Opens First Foreign Cultural Center in Saudi Arabia
France is set to strengthen its ties with Saudi Arabia by opening the Villa Hegra, a Franco-Saudi cultural center, in Al-Ula on October 2. This marks the first cultural institution created with a foreign country in Saudi Arabia and reflects France's ambition to deepen relations with the kingdom.
The Villa, named after the ancient Nabatean funerary site Hegra, will host a variety of cultural events. Its early months will feature 'Cosmos' by Jean-Michel Othoniel, an exhibition focused on Rodin's sculpted hands, and a performance by Rachid Ouramdane. The center will also offer artist residencies, cultural workshops, exhibitions, performances, and exchange programs.
The Pompidou Center has plans to establish a museum of contemporary art dedicated to Arab artists in Al-Ula. This cultural expansion follows an agreement signed by President Macron and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2018 for the development of the Al-Ula region. High-ranking officials from both countries will attend the inauguration of the Villa Hegra.
The opening of the Villa Hegra signifies a new chapter in Franco-Saudi cultural cooperation. It is expected to foster artistic exchange and understanding between the two nations, contributing to the broader development of the Al-Ula region.
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