Al-Faw inaugurates cultural street to revive artistic and literary life

BASRA — The southern town of Al-Faw, located at the tip of Basra along the Gulf, has launched a new cultural street in an effort to reinvigorate its artistic and literary scene. The initiative, unveiled amid ongoing calls for more development in the historically significant area, featured poetry readings, art performances, and the opening of libraries and exhibitions.

Artists and writers from across Basra took part in the event, which organizers described as part of a broader effort to support young talent and transform public spaces into enduring cultural platforms.

“It is an honor to be in Al-Faw, a city that has produced many creative figures,” said Fathi Shaddad, head of the Basra Artists Syndicate. “This street proves Al-Faw is vibrant and not marginalized as some claim. It brings to mind the cultural peak of Basra in the 1960s, ’70s, and ’80s.”

Dia Saad, a local bookstore owner, said the project was the result of long-standing community efforts. “After much effort, we were able to launch Al-Faw’s cultural street. There is strong local talent in painting, art, and literature. We hope to attract more creatives and elevate the city’s cultural scene.”

Atuf Al-Husseini, representing the Thaghr Al-Fayha Foundation for Culture and Media, praised the street’s design and ambition. “This location offers space and organization that may even surpass Al-Farahidi Street in terms of variety and accessibility,” he said, referring to Basra’s well-known cultural hub. “Al-Faw is on track to build a true cultural foundation.”