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A collection of rare archaeological finds originating from the ancient city of Petra is to be exhibited at Sharjah Archaeology Museum.
Running from Nov. 23, till March 16, 2017, Petra, Desert Wonder includes a stunning selection of sculptures, statues, architectural motifs and crafts from the iconic Rose City.
The exhibition, a collaboration between Sharjah Museums Department and the Department of Antiquities in Jordan, reflects the groundbreaking artistic and architectural heritage integral to the civilization of the Arab Nabataeans and their city carved in stone.
Manal Ataya, director general of Sharjah Museums Department, said: “Petra, Desert Wonder is the first show of its kind in the Gulf and indeed the Arabian Peninsula as a whole. The collection truly exudes the atmosphere of Petra’s ruins and its desert location, providing a fascinating introduction to the Nabateans and their architecture, culture, and art.
“The presentation would not have been possible without the commitment and consistent support of our colleagues at the Department of Antiquities in Jordan. We extend our warm gratitude to them and look forward to consolidating our partnership in the future.”
Petra, Desert Wonder presents a unique collection from the spectacular Nabataean city of Petra, hidden among steep red rocks of sandstone in the southern part of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
From 300 BC to 106 AD, Petra was the capital of a wealthy and powerful kingdom, as well as a political and economic metropolis with trading links across the Arabian Peninsula and beyond. Today, the city stands out as the only Arab archaeological site among the ‘new wonders of the world’, recognized internationally as UNESCO World Heritage in 1985.
“This exhibition fulfills the role of Sharjah Archaeology Museum in raising awareness of the importance of archaeology in identifying the history of peoples and nations throughout antiquity,” said Ms. Ataya.
“As well as admiring the visual splendor of the collection, visitors will be able to explore the relationship and connections that linked Petra as a center of trade with other settlements in the Arabian Peninsula, including Mleiha.”
She added: “We are looking forward to welcoming visitors from this region and beyond to an exhibition that is sure to promote strong cultural cooperation between Sharjah and Jordan.”
The Sharjah Museums Department (SMD) was established in 2006 by Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, as an independent government department. The SMD includes 16 museums covering Islamic art and culture, archaeology, heritage, science, marine life and the history of Sharjah and the region.
SMD’s vision is to be a cultural beacon that enhances Sharjah’ s identity locally and internationally and contribute in nurturing a community aware of museums’ importance as a cultural, educational and enjoyable destination.
Its mission is to deliver the highest museum standards to preserve collections & enhance an appreciation of culture and learning through our exhibitions, educational and community programs. — SG
