About Ghurnata
Sewn out of the very fabric of Heliopolis, Ghurnata is a unique
community space that
blends culture, human connection, and a proud legacy of leisure.
Ghurnata is a transformative initiative that stands at the heart of the broader
revitalization of a heritage district, acting as both a catalyst for change and a model for
intentional, sustainable urban development.
A modern gathering spot for both locals, Heliopolitans, and visitors, Ghurnata offers a
year-round calendar. With an emphasis on collaboration and accessibility, it serves as a
vibrant space where meaningful interactions and collective growth take place, bringing
people together to shape the future of the community.
Origin Story
Ghurnata’s origin story is deeply entwined with the rich heritage of
Heliopolis, a city born
at the dawn of the 20th century. In 1905, the visionary urban design of Heliopolis sought
to create a modern, local oasis, complete with lush gardens, wide boulevards, and
expansive public spaces that would cater to both leisure and cultural life. The
Hippodrome, Ghurnata’s predecessor born in 1909, was the crowning jewel of this grand
vision. A bustling epicenter of European-style events and world-class races, it became
synonymous with the spirit of Heliopolis elegance, ambition, and modernity— and the
proud home of Heliopolis Racing Club,
By the 1960s, the racecourse gave way to Merryland Park, though much
of its grandeur remained in iconic structures like the Neo-Islamic royal pavilion and first-class
stands.
These remnants not only withstood the passage of time, but also became enduring
symbols of Heliopolis’ evolving identity, immortalized in cultural landmarks like the film
Al-Wesada Al-Khalia (1957).
Today, Ghurnata reimagines the first-class stands and royal pavilion
as vibrant spaces
for community gatherings, performances, workshops, and social events, breathing new
life into the once-glorious racing grounds. Architectural motifs and the spirit of horse
racing, a defining element of the site’s past, have been woven into the new design
through subtle visual cues, curated displays, and spatial storytelling that honor its rich
heritage. These elements have been carefully integrated into a modern landscape that
preserves the site's historical legacy while offering a contemporary setting where
residents and visitors can come together, share experiences, and create new stories.
Ghurnata becomes not just a community space, but a living testament to Heliopolis cultural evolution, an
enduring link between past, present, and future in this one-of-a-
kind neighborhood.
