Sharjah Archaeology Museum celebrates 30th anniversary
Sharjah Museums Authority (SMA) marks the 30th Anniversary of the opening of the Sharjah Archaeology Museum, the emirate’s first cultural institution that was established in 1993 to showcase archeological material excavated in the emirate of Sharjah and document the rich history that has shaped understanding of the region.
An increase in the number of excavations and unique discoveries in the Emirate of Sharjah, specifically in the city of Kalba and Mleiha, paved the way for establishing the first museum of its kind in the Emirate, a press release said.
Following directives from Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed al Qasimi, member of the Supreme Council and ruler of Sharjah, a committee comprising Emirati and French museology experts, as well as archaeologists who worked in various Sharjah sites, was tasked in 1988 to help with the establishment of the museum.
Prior to officially inaugurating the museum on the 5th of January in1993, the ruler of Sharjah gifted the new museum numerous objects of great significance.
He also issued a dedicated law in 1992 that aims to further protect archeological sites and discoveries and to fight the illegal trade and smuggling of artefacts.
“It is a great day for SMA to commemorate this important milestone of a truly one of a kind museum in the UAE and Gulf region,” said Manal Ataya, director general of
Sharjah Museums Authority.
“I am privileged to have had the opportunity over these many years to oversee the development of the museum’s offerings and ensure we have stronger community engagement via our programmes and exhibitions. I have personally been committed to greater scholarship, collaboration and to narrating the remarkable story of the UAE’S ancient history,” Ataya added.
Several halls at the threefloor landmark showcased objects dating back to different eras including the Neolithic era, the 2nd and 3rd millennium BC, the Iron Age, Hellenistic era, and Islamic era. Other halls were dedicated to restoration of artefacts and antiquities.