Turks celebrate Ramadan under shadow of pandemic From masked drummers to online pide contests, Turks are bringing new twists to Ramadan in the coronavirus era. Turkey
How COVID-19 threatens Istanbul's cultural heritage The novel coronavirus pandemic presents multiple threats to Istanbul's cultural heritage, both decimating tourism and distracting from destructive development projects. Turkey
The female body on display in Haifa At the tiny Mane-Katz Museum in Haifa an exhibition embraces feminine sculptures by Chana Orloff and her artist colleagues. Israel
Gazan authors start new chapter Although writers and publishers have suffered in the economic difficulties that have gripped the Gaza Strip since 2006, signs of a literary awakening are giving booklovers hope. Palestine
Despite fame, Gazan painter struggles to make living Renowned Gaza artist Fathi Ghaben has suffered from poverty and feels cheated, but still believes he will be rewarded for his work someday. Palestine
Has Turkey found world's oldest temple? A 12,000-year-old Stone Age temple discovered in southern Turkey is challenging conventional views on the rise of civilization. Turkey
Dabke troupes dance on in Gaza Traditional dance groups are the pride of Palestinians, and unemployed young people in the Gaza Strip are joining these groups to make a living. Palestine
Lebanon sees green future in ecotourism Ecotourism could potentially turn into a sustainable source of income for Lebanon, and some organizations have been coordinating efforts to develop the field. Lebanon
Does Turkey care about cultural diversity? More than 100 countries have endorsed a UN convention on protecting cultural diversity, but a decade after its inception, the convention still awaits ratification by the Turkish parliament. Turkey
Archaeological excavations in Iraq continue despite security chaos In spite of the precarious situation in Iraq, a series of excavations is still uncovering the buried historical ruins in Iraq, where the ruins of Ur are only a sample of the landmarks that are yet to be unveiled. Iraq
Turkish artisans keep ceramic craft alight In the Turkish city of Kutahya, ceramic artisans preserve a centuries-old craft, looking both for foreign markets and interaction with fellow craftsmen across the world. Turkey
New developments grow where Tehran's historic sycamore trees used to stand Tehran's sycamore trees on Valiasr Street are being cut down to make room for businesses and developers; because the trees have a protected status of sorts, it is believed that some are being intentionally dried out in order to kill them. Iran
