Tailored Solutions: Lab Meetings with Mapei
The weeks following the festive season and the start of 2025 have been packed with a diverse range of activities, keeping us on our toes and diving into the year with a renewed sense of purpose. From detailed lab work to field checks in the breathtaking expanse of Hegra, every moment has brought us closer to refining our conservation strategies.
A significant highlight of the month was our in-person meetings in Mapei laboratories, where we focused on fine-tuning procedures for the use of sustainable and context-specific mortars for Hegra. The goal? To create customised solutions using local materials, such as sieved sands from the region, and ensure they are both environmentally friendly and perfectly adapted to the unique needs of the site. It’s exciting to see how these small adjustments can make a big difference in respecting Hegra’s history while preparing it for the future.
Unveiling Material Secrets
We also sent off additional samples collected from the archaeological site. These will help us deepen our understanding of the intrinsic properties of the materials and how they respond to external agents. Each analysis brings us one step closer to decoding the story hidden within the stones of Hegra and crafting conservation methods that will stand the test of time.
Lights, Camera, Conservation!
January also marked the beginning of an exciting new venture: planning the filming of a documentary that will chronicle the journey of this conservation project. While we’re still in the early stages of organising, the idea of sharing Hegra’s story with a broader audience is thrilling. It’s not just about the science but also about connecting people to the heritage and passion that make this work so meaningful.
Back to the Field
After returning to Saudi Arabia post-holidays, it was time to hit the ground running—literally. Our first task was to assess the condition of the areas subjected to tests before we left for the break. Seeing how the materials and treatments had fared during our absence provided valuable insights into the effectiveness of our methods.
Collaborating with the scientific coordinators of the project has been instrumental this month. Together, we’ve been reviewing the preliminary results from field tests and diagnostic analyses. These discussions have helped us evaluate any necessary adjustments to our procedures, ensuring we’re always on the right track toward achieving the best results for Hegra’s preservation. With so much progress made and exciting plans unfolding, January has set a high bar for the year ahead. Every meeting, test, and step in the field brings us closer to preserving the timeless beauty of Hegra—and we can’t wait to see what the next month has in store.
