Guided by the Past: New Port Said Square Draws on Historic Lighthouse

Inspired by the Port Said Lighthouse - one of the first in the world to be built using concrete - Egyptian architect Karim Gabr designed the brand new ‘Al-Tameer Square’ at the entrance of the coastal city. With a concept titled ‘The Dancing Lighthouse’, the contemporary piece of architecture was built to act as a landmark that reflects the city’s aesthetic, soul and history.

“I deconstructed the form after the motion of seawaves and the folklore dance, ‘Elsemsemya’, which Port Said is famous for,” Gabr says in a description of his process. “The twisted wooden core is inspired by the city’s historical timeline.” The design is straight at the base, an octagonal form following French industrialist Francois Cognet’s novel technique on the lighthouse. From there, it begins to twirl.

Mimicking the 1869 structure which today acts as the city’s major tourist attraction, The Dancing Lighthouse covers its wooden core with a natural grey stone shell. The symbolism behind its dynamism reflects upon major historic references through its form. It’s straight as an ode to the ancient city of Pelusiam and begins to twist in remembrance of the city’s turbulent times.

“Since 1859, the city has been rapidly growing and building its own future. Hence, at the very top, the wooden core ends up being spotlighted to represent hope,” Gabr adds. The twisting tower hosts four clocks at its peak, evocative of time and how the city has evolved into modernity throughout it.

Natural inspirations seep through the modern design. The open space features cylinders covered with yellow stone; the sand on the city’s coast, while chairs have meandering forms. Three water fountains are placed around the square, representing the Mediterranean Sea, Suez Canal and Lake Manzala, the main bodies of water convening in the pivotal port city.

Photography Credit: Abdo Nofal