Caisa, International Cultural Centre, Helsinki


Among the major losses suffered by Iraqis and Syrians in exile is the loss of their archaeological heritage. Caisa, in collaboration with Iclea, is inviting Iraqi and Syrian refugees to share their memories and stories related to their ancient history, together with Finnish heritage professionals.


13.00: Welcoming address: Cátia Suomalainen Pedrosa, director of Caisa, and Laura Gutman, Iclea

13.30: Introduction (in Arabic): Nidaa Dandachi, Former curator, Homs Museum

14.00: Past and People of Syria and Iraq for a Finnish Assyriologist: an impassioned account: Dr Sanna Aro-Valjus, Adjunct Professor in Near Eastern Archaeology, University of Helsinki

14.45: Coffee break

15.30: Cultural heritage: what, how and why? Eero Ehanti, Keeper, The National Museum of Finland, and Chairman, ICOM-Finland

16.15: Open discussion: moderator: Burhan Hamdon, Executive Manager, Hakunila International organization

17.30: Closing words, Hamza Amarouche, Caisa