Tunisia's Banzart Celebrates Malouf Poetry and Heritage

The city of Banzart, Tunisia, is set to host the 5th Arab Malouf Poetry Meeting from November 6 to 8, 2026. The event, organized by the Intermediate Cultural Association and supported by the Regional Cultural Affairs Delegation of Banzart, will take place at the Villa Top in the Dar Abd al-Rahman. This year's meeting is themed "Qawafi Al-Asalah bil-Lugha Al-'Asr" or "Rhymes of Authenticity in the Language of the Era."

The meeting aims to celebrate Malouf poetry as a vital component of cultural memory and intangible heritage. The event will feature a range of cultural and artistic activities, including poetry readings, art exhibitions, and workshops. A total of 6-8 November will see the participation of poets, artists, and craftsmen. The meeting's program includes a poetry reading session with renowned poets and young voices.

On November 6, the meeting will officially commence with an opening ceremony. The event will also feature an exhibition of visual arts by Tarek Smirani, a showcase of handicrafts by Libyan craftswoman Libya Ben Amer, and a fashion show by Tunisian designer and craftswoman Souma Al-Zein. These activities aim to promote and preserve Tunisia's rich cultural heritage.

The meeting will also include a workshop on November 7, titled "How to Record and Produce Your Malouf Poem for Digital Publishing?" The workshop targets young poets and aims to introduce them to the basic techniques of voice and recitation, as well as the use of social media platforms in publishing and promoting their work.

On the same day, the winners of the best poem competition, named after the late poet Azeddine Al-Shabi, will be announced. Participants will be honored, and a musical performance by Afifa Al-Awaini will take place. The event seeks to encourage young talents and foster creativity in the field of Malouf poetry.

The meeting will conclude on November 8 with a guided tour of the old city and ancient port of Banzart. This excursion aims to introduce guests to the historical and cultural significance of the region. The event is expected to promote the preservation of Tunisia's poetic heritage and encourage its development in the modern cultural scene.

The 5th Arab Malouf Poetry Meeting in Banzart underscores the importance of preserving and promoting Malouf poetry as an integral part of Tunisia's cultural identity. By embracing digital media and supporting young creatives, the event seeks to ensure the continued relevance and vitality of this poetic tradition.

Key points

• The 5th Arab Malouf Poetry Meeting took place in Banzart, Tunisia, from November 6-8, 2026.
• The event featured poetry readings, art exhibitions, and workshops celebrating Malouf poetry and heritage.
• The meeting aimed to promote and preserve Tunisia's rich cultural heritage, particularly Malouf poetry, and encourage young talents in the field.