Preparations are underway to organize the new edition of the “Mother of Spring Festival in Sorman.” A meeting was held yesterday, Monday, at the headquarters of the General Authority for Cinema and Theater and Arts, to discuss the ongoing arrangements for launching the festival and to explore ways to support local initiatives in this direction, in a manner befitting the revival of Libyan cultural heritage. The necessary administrative and financial plans for organizing the events were also reviewed, in cooperation with the Western Coast branch, and mechanisms to highlight the festival as a cultural destination that combines art and heritage were examined.
The “Mother of Spring Festival in Sorman” is an annual cultural and heritage event aimed at revitalizing the artistic movement in the region. It offers diverse performances, including folk arts alongside equestrian shows that embody the authenticity of Libyan traditions and the depth of its civilizational heritage.
Mother of Spring Festival in Sorman
The Mother of Spring Festival in Sorman, Libya, is a traditional annual celebration held in early March that marks the beginning of spring. Rooted in ancient Amazigh (Berber) heritage, the festival features music, dance, and traditional dress, symbolizing renewal and the region’s cultural identity.
General Authority for Cinema and Theater and Arts
The General Authority for Cinema, Theater, and Arts is a Saudi government body established in 2020 to oversee and develop the kingdom’s cultural and entertainment sectors. It was formed as part of the Vision 2030 reform program to promote cultural production, regulate artistic activities, and support the growth of a vibrant domestic arts scene.
Libyan cultural heritage
Libyan cultural heritage encompasses a diverse range of historical sites reflecting the influence of Berber, Phoenician, Roman, and Islamic civilizations. Key examples include the Roman ruins of Leptis Magna and Sabratha, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the ancient desert city of Ghadamès. This heritage has faced significant threats and damage in recent decades due to conflict and instability.
Western Coast branch
The Western Coast branch is a regional facility of the National Museum of the Philippines, located in Ilocos Sur. It was established to preserve and showcase the rich cultural heritage and archaeological findings from the western coastal regions of Luzon. The branch’s collections highlight the area’s pre-colonial history and its development through the Spanish colonial era.
Sorman
Sorman is a coastal city in northwestern Libya, historically known as an ancient Phoenician and later Roman settlement called “Syrtis.” It played a role in Mediterranean trade and, in the modern era, was a site of conflict during the 2011 Libyan Civil War. Today, it remains a local administrative center and port.
Libyan traditions
Libyan traditions are deeply rooted in the country’s Arab, Berber (Amazigh), and Mediterranean heritage, often expressed through communal hospitality, intricate handicrafts, and oral poetry. Historically, these customs have been shaped by tribal social structures, the influence of Islam, and the adaptations necessary for life in both coastal and desert environments. Key cultural practices include elaborate wedding ceremonies, traditional music like the folk style of *malouf*, and the serving of mint tea as a symbol of welcome.
