The agencies of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), particularly the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), have played a vital role in the restoration of a number of heritage projects in northern Pakistan. Committed to sustainable development, AKTC has restored Altit Fort, Baltit Fort, Shigar Fort, Khaplu Palace and the Wali’s Residence, and handed over these assets to Serena Hotels Pakistan to ensure that the properties are well taken care of and appreciated, as Serena Hotels – part of the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development – offer opportunities for sustainable heritage tourism.  

Kazan, Republic of Tatarstan, Russia, 13 September 2019 – The six winning projects of the 2019 Aga Khan Award for Architecture (AKAA) were acclaimed earlier today at a ceremony held at Kazan’s Musa Jalil State Academic Opera and Ballet Theatre. Mintimer Shaimiev, State Counsellor of the Republic of Tatarstan, accompanied His Highness the Aga Khan, hereditary Imam (spiritual leader) of the Ismaili Muslims, in presiding over the Awards Ceremony.