Archaeological Heritage Management as a Tool for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (Case Study: Religions Complex in Historic Cairo, Egypt)

Younis, Sara Hamdy; Hemimy, Wael Abdel-Rahim; Attia Mohamed, Othman Salama; Shaikhon, Ahmed Motawea

doi:10.21608/lijas.2025.336921.1054

Archaeological Heritage Management as a Tool for Achieving Sustainable Development Goals (Case Study: Religions Complex in Historic Cairo, Egypt)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Master's student, Faculty of Archaeology, Luxor University

² Associate Professor of Islamic Archaeology and Vice Dean of the Faculty of Archeology for Postgraduate Studies, Luxor University

³ Lecturer of Islamic Archaeology and Numismatics, Faculty of Archaeology, Luxor University

⁴ Archaeologist, Archeological Sites Management Specialist Supreme Council of Antiquities, Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities

10.21608/lijas.2025.336921.1054

Abstract

The management of archaeological heritage plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable development through preserving cultural heritage while enhancing economic, social, and environmental benefits. This study focuses on the Religious Complex in Historic Cairo, Egypt, a site of exceptional historical and cultural significance that embodies interfaith heritage. Despite its importance, the site faces numerous challenges that necessitate effective and integrated management. Accordingly, this research aims to develop a comprehensive management plan aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The approach integrates diverse methodologies within a coherent framework to achieve these goals effectively. It begins with an exploration of the principles of archaeological site management, aligning them with international recommendations and the SDGs. These foundational principles inform the formulation of an action plan enriched with specific performance indicators that reflect the unique characteristics of the site and its surrounding context. The proposed management plan seeks to enhance visitor infrastructure, develop educational programs, strengthen community engagement, and incorporate sustainable tourism practices—ensuring both the conservation of heritage and the delivery of tangible benefits to the local community. Furthermore, field data play a critical role in assessing the physical condition of the site. A structured SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis is employed to systematically identify key challenges and potential opportunities, guiding the development of strategic and sustainable interventions.

Keywords