2009 Arab Capital of Culture | |
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Dates | 2009 |
Location(s) | "al-Quds" (Jerusalem), Bethlehem, Gaza, Nazareth, Mar Elias refugee camp |
Website | http://www.alquds2009.org/english.php |
Al-Quds Arab Capital of Culture (Arabic: القدس عاصمة الثقافة العربية) was the name given to Arab Capital of Culture programme in 2009.[1] The programme, organised by UNESCO and the Arab League, is designed to promote Arab culture and encourage cooperation in the Arab world. The 2009 event was the 14th programme since its establishment in 1996.
Al-Quds is the Arabic name for Jerusalem, the proclaimed capital of the State of Palestine, although the seat of government and de facto capital is Ramallah. Many of the events were held in the Palestinian territories controlled by the Palestinian National Authority. The opening event scheduled for January 2009 was delayed due to the Gaza War.[2] It was held on March 21, 2009.[3]