The second segment of the workshop's second day unfolded as participants embarked on a transformative journey, delving into the living heritage of Fatimid Cairo to glean insights into both its historical significance and its contemporary challenges.

Commencing the afternoon session, participants strolled to a nearby mosque, historically repurposed as a school, immersing themselves in the world of Islamic art and Arabic calligraphy. This hands-on encounter allowed participants to appreciate the artistic expressions embedded within the heritage site, fostering a deeper connection to the cultural and educational dimensions of the locale.

Alia Nasser then guided participants to a once-thriving Hammam (Turkish Bath) or what we call ‘spa’, now neglected and obscured by debris. In a thought-provoking exercise, participants were encouraged to envision the Hammam as it once flourished, pulsating with social activity. This evocative exploration emphasised the social and community significance of heritage spaces, prompting participants to reflect on the importance of preserving such sites as conduits of shared history.

Continuing their journey through the labyrinthine streets of Fatimid Cairo, participants explored local stalls and markets, gaining rare insights into traditional crafts. Witnessing artisans engaged in practices such as leathermaking, inlaid production, and breadmaking provided a tangible connection to the living heritage of the area. This unique opportunity allowed participants to engage directly with local craftspeople, fostering meaningful exchanges as they inquired about their experiences and marveled at the intricate skills demonstrated in their craft.

The impact of this immersive experience was profound, as participants not only expanded their theoretical understanding of heritage preservation but also forged meaningful connections with the living heritage of Fatimid Cairo. These encounters served as a powerful catalyst, inspiring participants to consider the socio-cultural dimensions of heritage preservation in their subsequent discussions and collaborative endeavors. The second day's activities, deeply rooted in experiential learning, undoubtedly contributed to the workshop's overarching goal of cultivating a holistic and sustainable approach to heritage management.

The concluding phase of the second day witnessed a significant impact as participants immersed themselves in the vibrant ambiance of Al Qalam Art House, a local art school dedicated to revitalizing the arts of Arabic calligraphy and Islamic decoration, along with their practical applications (Al-Qalam, 2023).

Within the walls of Al Qalam, participants were introduced to a spectrum of arts and crafts that, while currently experiencing a decline, stand as crucial components of Egypt's cultural heritage. The artistic disciplines showcased encompassed calligraphy, pottery, painting, engraving, and more—each representing a rich tapestry of cultural expression that has played a pivotal role in Egypt's historical narrative.

The teachers at Al Qalam Art House exemplified genuine enthusiasm for their crafts, offering participants valuable insights into the intricate techniques and cultural significance of each art form. Their passion for preserving these traditions was palpable, highlighting the crucial role of education in safeguarding and disseminating knowledge of these traditional trades.

This immersive experience at Al Qalam not only broadened participants' understanding of the arts and crafts integral to Egypt's cultural heritage but also emphasized the urgency of revitalizing these declining traditions. The engagement with passionate teachers who recognize the importance of imparting knowledge further emphasised the vital intersection between education, cultural heritage preservation, and community engagement.

As participants left Al Qalam Art House, they carried with them not only newfound appreciation for the diverse artistic traditions but also a heightened awareness of the imperative to support educational initiatives that contribute to the preservation of Egypt's cultural heritage. This impactful encounter marked a poignant conclusion to the workshop's second day, leaving participants inspired and equipped with tangible insights to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing discourse on heritage conservation.

The penultimate segment of the second day unfolded with a Networking and Lunch Event at the serene Al-Azhar Park, offering participants a respite amidst lush greenery and captivating local scenery.

In this relaxed yet purposeful setting, participants seized the opportunity to engage with project leaders and fellow participants. Against the backdrop of Al-Azhar Park's tranquil ambiance, lively conversations ensued, fostering meaningful connections and insights. Participants utilized this valuable time not only to discuss their own professional practices and educational backgrounds but also to establish connections on LinkedIn, strengthening the collaborative network forged during the workshop.

The event provided a conducive atmosphere for participants to unwind after an enriching day of sightseeing and immersive interactions with the local community. As participants savored the surroundings and exchanged thoughts, relationships deepened, setting the stage for a more cohesive and collaborative continuation of the workshop. The networking event served as a vital bridge between the experiential learnings of the day and the forthcoming workshop sessions, presentations, and discussions on the following day.

In essence, this intentional interlude at Al-Azhar Park was not just a moment of relaxation but a strategic investment in fostering camaraderie among participants, laying the groundwork for a shared commitment to the workshop's objectives. As the day drew to a close, participants left the park with a sense of connection and anticipation, ready to carry forward the collaborative spirit into the final leg of the workshop.