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United States Returns ‘Earth Monster’ Olmec Sculpture to Mexico

Colorado Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera, left, is shown a photograph of "Monument 9," an Olmec civilization statue that is believed to represent an "earth monster," before a part of the creation was repatriated Friday, May 19, 2023, in Denver. (AP)
Colorado Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera, left, is shown a photograph of "Monument 9," an Olmec civilization statue that is believed to represent an "earth monster," before a part of the creation was repatriated Friday, May 19, 2023, in Denver. (AP)
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United States Returns ‘Earth Monster’ Olmec Sculpture to Mexico

Colorado Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera, left, is shown a photograph of "Monument 9," an Olmec civilization statue that is believed to represent an "earth monster," before a part of the creation was repatriated Friday, May 19, 2023, in Denver. (AP)
Colorado Lt. Gov. Dianne Primavera, left, is shown a photograph of "Monument 9," an Olmec civilization statue that is believed to represent an "earth monster," before a part of the creation was repatriated Friday, May 19, 2023, in Denver. (AP)

Mexico announced Friday that a huge 2,500-year-old Olmec stone sculpture has been returned from the United States.

The almost six-foot-tall (two-meter) “Monster of the Earth” sculpture appears to represent the gaping maw of a monster that is big enough to swallow people, and may represent a symbolic entrance to the underworld.

Experts say the sculpture is important because of the insights it provides on the cosmological vision of the Olmecs, considered a founding culture of Meso-America.

Foreign Relations Secretary Marcelo Ebrard said the sculpture was handed over at the Mexican consulate in Denver, Colorado, on Friday.

Experts believe the sculpture was taken clandestinely in the 1960s from Chalcatzingo, a lesser-known ruin site south of Mexico City.

“It was like an open wound, not having this artifact,” Ebrard said.

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Culture

Charcoal Irons Illustrate Traditional Ironing Practices in Saudi Arabia’s Old Villages

Charcoal irons were once a common household tool in village homes over six decades ago - SPA
Charcoal irons were once a common household tool in village homes over six decades ago - SPA
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Charcoal Irons Illustrate Traditional Ironing Practices in Saudi Arabia’s Old Villages

Charcoal irons were once a common household tool in village homes over six decades ago - SPA
Charcoal irons were once a common household tool in village homes over six decades ago - SPA

Charcoal irons were once a common household tool in village homes over six decades ago, serving as the only way to iron clothes before they gradually fell out of use and now survive mainly as museum artifacts, SPA reported.

Several elders recalled that charcoal irons were widely used, with women relying on them for daily ironing.

Neighbors often lent or exchanged irons when needed, highlighting their importance and scarcity, and making them an integral part of village social life.

The charcoal iron worked similarly to a modern steam iron but required preparation where charcoal had to be burned to embers, placed inside the iron to heat the base, and water had to be manually sprayed to create steam for ironing.

SPA documented several charcoal irons preserved at a heritage museum in Rafha Governorate, Northern Borders Region. Licensed by the Heritage Commission, the museum illustrates the history of traditional household tools in the past.

Culture

Cultural and Heritage Events Launched at King Abdulaziz Palace in Qibah, Qassim

The activities will run through March 27 to revitalize the palace - SPA
The activities will run through March 27 to revitalize the palace - SPA
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Cultural and Heritage Events Launched at King Abdulaziz Palace in Qibah, Qassim

The activities will run through March 27 to revitalize the palace - SPA
The activities will run through March 27 to revitalize the palace - SPA

The Imam Turki bin Abdullah Royal Reserve Development Authority, in collaboration with the Heritage Commission, has launched a series of cultural and heritage events at the historic King Abdulaziz Palace in Qibah, Qassim Region.

The activities, running through March 27, 2026, aim to revitalize the palace as a vibrant cultural platform and strengthen the community’s connection to Saudi national identity.

The daily program, held from 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm, includes live folk art performances, such as the Saudi Ardah, along with interactive experiences for all age groups. Outdoor areas are designated for children, offering educational and recreational activities that help preserve cultural values across generations, SPA reported.

Visitors can also explore archaeological artifacts that reflect the region’s social and economic history. The event further provides a platform for families engaged in cottage industries and artisans to showcase traditional handicrafts, supporting local economic empowerment and highlighting the richness of regional heritage through a modern, interactive approach.

The authority confirmed that activating King Abdulaziz Palace in Qibah is part of its strategy to highlight historical sites within its geographical scope. It aims to transform them into active cultural and tourist destinations that promote cultural engagement and strengthen national identity, in coordination with relevant authorities.

Culture

Heritage, Arts, and Entertainment Mark Sakaka's Eid Al-Fitr Celebrations

 The event featured booths showcasing local artisans, food, and a photography corner - SPA
 The event featured booths showcasing local artisans, food, and a photography corner - SPA
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Heritage, Arts, and Entertainment Mark Sakaka's Eid Al-Fitr Celebrations

 The event featured booths showcasing local artisans, food, and a photography corner - SPA
 The event featured booths showcasing local artisans, food, and a photography corner - SPA

Eid Al-Fitr celebrations organized by Al-Jouf Municipality wrapped up after three days of events at Sakaka Public Park.

The festivities drew large crowds across three main zones, including a traditional heritage tent, a games and activities area, and a children’s zone featuring puppet shows, SPA reported.

The event also featured booths showcasing local artisans, food, and a photography corner.

Visitors were entertained by a stage program, featuring the traditional Saudi Ardah dance, live oud and organ performances, and poetry evenings.