Khaberni - The Architectural Engineering Council of the Jordan Engineers Association organized an intellectual seminar titled "Dialogue on Two Books by Professor Dr. Ali Abu Ghnaimah", celebrating his two new releases: The Courtyard in Mediterranean Architecture and The Stone in Mediterranean Architecture.
The event was attended by the head of the Engineers Association, Engineer Abdullah Asem Gousha, and the head of the Architectural Engineering Division, Engineer Imad Al-Dabbas, along with two members of the association's council, Engineer Mohammad Habashneh and Engineer Malik Allwan, in addition to the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Jordan, Dr. Munawar Al-Tarakiya, and a selection of academics, architects, and those interested in architectural matters.
In his speech, Gousha emphasized the association's special focus on architectural research and authorship, considering that engineering is not limited to professional practice but includes education, research, documentation, and openness to global experiences.
He praised the scientific and humanitarian role of Dr. Abu Ghnaimah, who contributed to the development of extensive knowledge networks on both the Arab and Mediterranean levels and represented Jordanian architecture in international forums, in addition to his continuous support for young architects.
Al-Dabbas expressed his pride in organizing this event, stating that the two books represent a qualitative addition to the Arab architectural library and provide an in-depth look at architecture as a cultural and human product linked to place, environment, and climate.
Al-Dabbas explained that the concepts of the courtyard and the stone reflect an early understanding of sustainability principles and help reinstate traditional architecture as an inspiration for more human-aware contemporary architecture.
He mentioned that the Architectural Division strives to highlight the importance of systematic architectural documentation, and supports young architects and researchers in documentation, study, and publishing projects.
In the context of the tribute, the secretary of the division, Engineer Mazen Al-Nablusi, noted that the two books provide a reference understanding of the importance of stone in Mediterranean architecture and a distinguished scientific documentation of the role of the courtyard in the evolution of Arab architecture, influencing the collective architectural consciousness.
He appreciated the cultural environment the event created and its role in enriching the discussion.
Meanwhile, the student Ayesh Al-Awaisha presented a showcase reviewing the works of Dr. Abu Ghnaimah, which comprised 10 books addressing architectural issues, documentation, and critical thinking in both the Arab and Mediterranean contexts.
Abu Ghnaimah discussed his experience in writing and documenting since the late 1980s, noting the challenges he faced in documenting Jordanian and Arab architecture and his reasons for launching a series of books on Mediterranean architecture with researchers from more than 10 countries.
He announced that these publications are available in a free electronic format through the association, to support the dissemination of architectural knowledge.
The dialogue also featured recorded scientific contributions from the former Dean of the Faculty of Architecture at Damascus University, Professor Dr. Uqba Fakoush, and the Head of the Department of Architecture at the University of Alexandria, Professor Dr. Ibrahim Ma'roof, as well as direct contributions from Professor Dr. Salim Dahabra from the University of Jordan, and Dr. Rami Al-Shawabkeh from the American University in Madaba.
The event was hosted by Engineer Mazen Al-Nablusi
The event concluded with an open dialogue with the audience, discussing the themes of the two books and the importance of architectural documentation and its role in protecting the architectural heritage in Jordan and the Levant amidst the rapid urban and environmental challenges.
Members of the Architectural Division Council and representatives of the division in the central body, members of the engineering offices authority, chairpersons, and members of branch councils of the association participated in the dialogue.
It is noteworthy that Professor Dr. Ali Abu Ghnaimah holds a professorship in Architectural Engineering and has held several positions including Vice President of Al al-Bayt University, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering at the University of Jordan, Dean of the Faculty of Arts at the University of Jordan, Dean of the Faculty of Arts at Al al-Bayt University, and visiting professor at various Italian universities.
