Second Phase of the 16th 'Maqamat' Festival
The Association of Abi Raqraq, in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication - Culture Sector, along with the Salé Prefecture (National Initiative for Human Development), is set to launch the second phase of the 16th edition of the 'Maqamat' Festival. This exciting event will take place from Friday, June 5, to Wednesday, June 10, 2026. This year's festival is particularly significant as it coincides with the 40th anniversary of the founding of the Abi Raqraq Association and the centenary celebration of the establishment of the first association dedicated to intellectual and literary activities, primarily in theater in Salé, known as the 'Salé Literary Club.'
The festival's theme, "Heritage of Salé: From Preservation and Rehabilitation to Developmental Function," is reflected in the program's focus on showcasing diverse artistic expressions that have deep roots and resonance in Salé and beyond. Through various performances, attendees will not only experience the artistic flair but also gain insights into the historical and intellectual context of each art form. The artistic presentations will incorporate innovative touches that resonate with broader audiences.
Embracing Heritage Spaces
In an effort to celebrate both intangible and tangible heritage, the festival will take place in prestigious heritage sites that are integral to Salé's cultural memory. These locations include the Bab Fas Gallery, where the opening ceremony will be held, along with Bab Al-San'a, the Tower of Bab Sebta, the Wool Market, and the Square of Bab Ihssain. The closing event will take place in the main hall of the Salé municipality.
The second phase program features a variety of professional musical activities, seminars, book presentations and signings, tributes to notable figures, open discussions with prominent intellectuals and artists, as well as training workshops and exhibitions of visual arts showcasing traditional Salé embroidery and oil paintings. The opening ceremony on June 5 will feature the presentation and signing of the book “Salé Through Foreign Eyes” by researcher and journalist Mohammed Sidik M’ninou, while the Bab Al-San’a space will host an evening of Aissaoui art performed by the esteemed group led by the veteran musician, Moulay Ali Arif.
The festival will conclude in the main hall of the Salé municipality, featuring a symbolic awards ceremony where esteemed members of the Abi Raqraq Association will be honored. The closing event will include a musical performance with brass instruments themed “Salé, the Beacon of Beautiful Cities,” showcasing a talented group of musicians from Salé and Rabat, led by brothers Abdessalam and Adnan Soufiani, along with Idriss Kdira.
It is anticipated that this edition of the festival will witness the participation of over 400 intellectuals, thinkers, artists, and technicians from Salé and beyond, further enriching the cultural landscape of the region.
As reported by elhadat24.com.
