Darb 1718, a renowned contemporary arts centre in Cairo, fell victim to demolition on January 6, sparking outrage within the artistic community and beyond. The organisation announced the unexpected destruction through a post on Instagram, lamenting the loss of a historic landmark that had served as a sanctuary for artists and artisans for 16 years.
In the social media post, the organisation expressed deep sadness and condemned the demolition of the main building, emphasising the absence of any prior notice or compensation. The move was attributed to the government’s initiative to widen a highway, part of an extensive redevelopment plan led by Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. The ambitious project aims to modernise the densely populated city and establish a new capital on the desert outskirts, with already over 4,000 miles of new roads, 900 tunnels, and bridges built.
The destruction of Darb 1718 is emblematic of the ongoing challenges to Cairo’s cultural heritage and historic fabric, leading to the displacement of communities. Similar concerns were raised last August when the government commenced demolishing structures in the ancient Fustat area, displacing traditional craftspeople.
Moataz Nasreldin, the founder of Darb 1718, revealed that government officials had informed him of the impending demolition in August, citing plans for an elevated highway. Subsequently, in September, all staff were ordered to vacate the premises, marking the end of the center’s 16-year legacy.
Darb 1718, named after the 1977 “bread riots,” was an early cultural hub in the city, hosting exhibitions, concerts, events, and workshops. Last week, Nasreldin disclosed on a popular talk show hosted by Lamis Elhadidy that the demolition resulted in the destruction of works by 150 foreign artists, valued at millions. Elhadidy, known for her support of the Egyptian government, criticized the Sisi regime, stating, “We hate our history and our old Cairo. We want a city that will be nothing but roads, asphalt, bridges.”
The demolition of Darb 1718 underscores the tensions between urban development and the preservation of cultural heritage in Cairo, as the city undergoes a transformative phase with far-reaching consequences for its artistic and historical legacy.
Feature image courtesy: Official Darb1718 Website
