In an event that seamlessly blended academic rigor with a deep emotional connection to the land, the Turathuna Foundation, in collaboration with the "Sun Trails" (Masarat al-Shams) project, organized a field tour for students from the Faculty of Architectural Engineering at Hama University. The journey aimed to re-read the memory of the place and preserve the heritage identity of Homs.

From the Rubble to the Stage: The Journey’s Path

The tour commenced at Homs First Theater and proceeded as a walking tour through the surrounding archaeological district. The visit included landmark historical and religious sites that reflect the city’s diverse fabric:

• Christian Landmarks: The Forty Martyrs Cathedral, the Church of Saint Alban of Homs, and the Church of Saint Mary of the Holy Belt (Umm al-Zunnar).
• Islamic Landmarks: Al-Fada’il Mosque and Al-Siraj Mosque.

Over the course of three hours, students listened to detailed architectural explanations and the stories behind the stones of "Homs al-Adiya." The students displayed remarkable passion and scientific curiosity, seeking to uncover the hidden depths of traditional architecture.

Unified Efforts to Protect Heritage

This visit aligns with the Turathuna Foundation’s vision—through its exhibition "From the Rubble to the Stage"—to bridge the gap between classroom theory and field practice. The initiative received extensive support from academic, religious, and official bodies, reinforcing the belief that protecting heritage is a shared responsibility.

The Foundation extended its deepest gratitude to:

• Hama University: Represented by its President, Prof. Dr. Abdul Karim Qalb al-Loz; the Dean of the Faculty of Architectural Engineering, Dr. Baraq Gharbi; and the Vice Dean for Scientific Affairs, Dr. Caroline Farkouh, for their efforts in raising student awareness.
• Religious Authorities: Fr. Nadim Andraus Tamer and Fr. Antonios Youssef, as well as the administrators of the visited mosques and churches, for facilitating the tour and providing insightful commentary.
• Supportive Entities: The Shia Imami Ismaili Council, for their generous support and facilitation of this scientific visit.
• Project Leadership: Ms. Naziha al-Qabbani, Director of the Sun Trails project and board member of the Foundation, for her pivotal role in making this trip a success.

A Message from the Heart of Homs

This initiative confirms that the path to building awareness begins with touching heritage on the ground. By blending a passion for science with the light of knowledge, Homs remains the compass—awakening a love for history in the heart and inspiring architectural creativity in the mind.