Celebrating Shared Historical and Cultural Richness
On May 21, 2026, the picturesque Teatret del Serrallo in Tarragona served as a vibrant hub for experts, researchers, and institutional representatives focused on the rich historical and cultural heritage that binds Morocco and Spain through their shared maritime and archaeological legacy. This significant gathering brought together a diverse group of participants, including institutional representatives, archaeologists, professors, students, and civil society members, fostering an environment of academic and cultural dialogue across the Mediterranean.
This event was part of the initiatives led by the Chair of Moroccan Studies at the Rovira i Virgili University, aiming to create a collaborative space that highlights the importance of Mediterranean scientific cooperation. The conference, entitled "Maritime Archaeology Between Two Shores: A Shared Heritage of Morocco and Spain," was organized by the Consulate General of the Kingdom of Morocco in Tarragona, alongside the National Institute of Archaeological Sciences and Heritage (INSAP) and the Catalan Institute of Human Paleoecology and Social Evolution, with contributions from Mohammed First University of Oujda and support from Kassid Formación.
Insights from Keynote Speakers and Collaborative Efforts
The session was moderated by Jordi Carbonell, the Chair's director, and featured notable presentations from Robert Sala, an esteemed professor and researcher at IPHES, who emphasized two decades of scientific collaboration that have flourished in Eastern Morocco. Other distinguished speakers included Abdeljalil Bouzouggar, director of INSAP, and Mohammed Chadli, a professor at the same institute, who shared recent archaeological discoveries made in Morocco, shedding light on the region's rich historical tapestry.
Throughout the various discussions, participants delved into critical topics concerning the preservation of Mediterranean maritime heritage, archaeological research, and the vital role of international scientific cooperation in enhancing our understanding of humanity's history and the civilizations that have coexisted in the Mediterranean over the centuries. Ikram Chahine, the Consul General of the Kingdom of Morocco in Tarragona, poignantly reminded attendees that "we are all Africa," expressing pride in Morocco's global significance in archaeology and its status as a cradle of humanity, particularly highlighting recent archaeological achievements in the country.
The day also featured a photographic exhibition dedicated to the shared maritime and archaeological heritage, aiming to engage the audience with the common historical wealth between Morocco and Spain. During the INSAP delegation's visit to Tarragona, institutional tours and working meetings were conducted at IPHES and the Catalan Institute of Classical Archaeology. In this context, a trilateral agreement was proposed to be signed among INSAP, Mohammed First University of Oujda, and IPHES to further strengthen the scientific and archaeological collaboration among the participating institutions.
The delegation also took the opportunity to explore the Roman remains of ancient Tarraco, a UNESCO World Heritage site, thereby emphasizing Tarragona’s historical and Mediterranean significance as a meeting point for civilizations.
As reported by diaridetarragona.com.
