Katara announced the launch of the Katara prize for manuscripts and archaeological sites in the Arab region

The Katara Prize for manuscripts and archaeological sites in the Arab world, which will be awarded annually to one Arab nation as a guest, was announced on Monday by the Cultural Village Foundation-Katara. Entries for the first edition will only be accepted from verified texts and studies pertaining to that nation's archaeological sites. Participants of any nationality may participate; they are not restricted to citizens of the chosen nation.

In connection with the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture, the Kingdom of Morocco has been selected as the special guest of honour for the inaugural Katara Prize for manuscripts and archaeological sites. 

The new prize is divided into two categories: the first is for research on unpublished original texts, and the second is for the finest study conducted under certain conditions on Arab landmarks or archaeological sites.

In order to choose the top three authenticated manuscripts and the top three archaeological research, a specialised committee will be tasked with reviewing and analysing the manuscripts and archaeological research. The right to publish and distribute the winning works shall belong to Katara Publishing House.

The inaugural Katara Prize for Manuscripts and Archaeological Sites will welcome submissions from March 11 through June. 

In order to improve Arab and Islamic culture, the award is intended to encourage owners of manuscripts, scholars, and professionals in archaeology to share their collections and research endeavours on a larger scale.

The award committee has established guidelines for participation that include general requirements for both categories as well as particular requirements for each category. Cash awards will be given to the three winners in each of the two categories. USD 20,000 will be awarded to the first place winner, USD 15,000 to the second place winner, and USD 10,000 to the third place winner.