Aleppo, Syria — The Global Organization for Civil Society Advancement (GLOCA) on March 23^rd 2025 hosted a seminar in Aleppo, bringing together key figures from various fields, including sculpture, visual arts, history, media, and cultural thought. The event focused on the pivotal role that physical spaces and objects play in the formation and preservation of cultural memory and identity.

The discussions centered on how historical sites and neighborhoods contribute to collective memory, with a particular emphasis on the lasting significance of squares, monuments, and statues as symbols of shared identity. These urban spaces are not only landmarks but also reflections of significant social and political events that have shaped the community’s history.

A key topic of the seminar was the material and spatial elements of culture, particularly the role of art and memorials in safeguarding heritage. Participants emphasized the importance of preserving collective narratives through works of art, statues, and monuments, which act as tools for transmitting cultural legacies across generations.

The conversation also highlighted that places and objects are far from being static remnants of the past. Instead, they remain active in the present, continuing to play a vital role in shaping the community's cultural identity through public events and ongoing cultural activities. The seminar specifically highlighted local landmarks, such as Saadallah al-Jabiri Square and the Martyrs' Monument, as living symbols that keep collective memory alive.

This seminar is part of GLOCA's broader efforts to foster community dialogue on heritage, identity, and the cultural forces that contribute to the resilience of societies. Through such discussions, the organization aims to encourage deeper reflection on the significance of culture in building stronger, more united communities.