Raqqa concludes first literary festival with tribute to writers
RAQQA, Syria (North Press) – The Culture and Antiquities Board of the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES) concluded on Monday the first literary festival in the city of Raqqa, northern Syria, by honoring a group of writers and poets from across Syria.
Titled “Syrian Ink for the Sake of Peace,” the three-day festival brought together a diverse group of intellectuals and authors from various Syrian regions.
It was organized by the Culture and Antiquities Authority to promote cultural dialogue and creative expression.
Lilav Khalil, co-chair of the Board, told North Press that 17 poets and writers were recognized during the festival. “The aim of this tribute is to provide moral support and encouragement for them to continue their cultural work—particularly in Raqqa, where the cultural sector suffered greatly under ISIS rule,” she said.
In addition to literary readings, the festival featured parallel events including a book fair and an exhibition of poems by poet Khair al-Din al-Mar’i, whose verses were presented within artistic frames.