Return to Tenderness is a community-led initiative by Qisetna that preserves the intangible cultural heritage of Raqqa, Syria, focusing on traditional music and oral stories from elders. Launched in 2021 by artist Juan delGado with local youth, it uses digital tools to record musicians tied to the city's Euphrates River location.
Located on the Euphrates river, Raqqa's heritage reflects the river's role in Syrian life, from ancient motifs to modern songs. The initiative highlights this by basing efforts in the city, linking preservation to the waterway's enduring influence amid post-conflict recovery.
Website: www.caravasarts.org/r2t
Lead Partner: Qisetna
Other Partners: Action for Peace