The Director of the Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology, University of Warsaw, Professor Artur Obłuski, and the Director of the University of Warsaw Museum, Professor Hubert Kowalski, are honored to invite you to the celebration of the 60th anniversary of PCMA UW research in Old Dongola, Sudan, held under the theme:
Old Dongola. Heritage, Community, Archaeology. 60 years of Sudanese–Polish Cooperation
– September 18, 2025, 4:00 p.m. – opening of the exhibition “Old Dongola. Heritage, Community, Archaeology. 60 years of Sudanese–Polish Cooperation” and screening of the film “The Heart of Nubia: 60 Years of Research in Old Dongola”
– September 19, 2025, 1:00 p.m. – lectures on Old Dongola and discussion panel “Together for Sudan: Safeguarding Heritage in Times of Crisis”
Venue: University of Warsaw Museum – Ballroom of the Tyszkiewicz-Potocki Palace, Krakowskie Przedmieście 32, Warsaw. The exhibition will be displayed outdoors on Krakowskie Przedmieście in front of the UW Museum.
The event is held under the Honorary Patronage of the Rector of the University of Warsaw, Professor Alojzy Z. Nowak.
RSVP: Please confirm your attendance by September 4, 2025 at: dongola.pcma@uw.edu.pl
Old Dongola, a royal city on the Nile, is one of Sudan’s most precious archaeological sites and a unique testimony to the region’s history. For six decades, the PCMA UW expedition has carried out systematic research there, uncovering remains of architecture, art, and everyday life. Collaboration with Sudanese institutions and specialists has been the foundation of these efforts, enabling the effective documentation and preservation of heritage that holds great significance not only for Sudan but also for the global scholarly community.
Dongola was the capital of the medieval Christian Kingdom of Makuria, which flourished on the Nile from the late 5th to the 14th century. Research conducted by the PCMA UW has yielded spectacular discoveries in Makurian churches and monasteries, including outstanding examples of Nubian wall paintings. Today, it also encompasses later periods, when a new state entity emerged in Dongola and Islam replaced Christianity.
The anniversary presents a unique opportunity to celebrate six decades of Sudanese-Polish cooperation. The event honors the efforts of many generations who have worked together over the years to explore the past and protect endangered monuments. It is also a moment to reflect on the future of research and preservation of Old Dongola—a site of exceptional historical and cultural value—in the face of contemporary challenges.
We will be delighted to welcome you to this special anniversary celebration.
