A cultural landmark in need of attention
Al-Adamiyah’s Timeless Treasure: Al-Jardagh Cafe’s Struggle for Preservation
BAGHDAD, December 22 — In the heart of Baghdad’s historic Al-Adamiyah district, the Al-Jardagh Cafe stands as a fading testament to a bygone era. Established in 1933, the cafe, named after the ‘jardaghs’ or canopies used by locals along the riverbanks, has witnessed countless political and social events.
Mohammad Alaa, the cafe’s operator, said, “Al-Jardagh Cafe, once a hub for politicians, writers, and intellectuals, now struggles. Lacking funds for restoration, it operates at minimal capacity. Despite its historical value, government policies restrict any alterations.”
Samir Al-Ani, a cafe regular, shared, “Decades of memories bind us to Al-Jardagh. Once lively, now it’s a shadow of its past. It’s more than a place for games or shisha; it’s a cultural landmark deserving recognition and preservation.”
The cafe’s dilapidated state reflects a broader challenge in preserving Baghdad’s cultural heritage, a task requiring attention and resources beyond what its current custodians can provide.
