Exhibits reflect history of Arabian Peninsula
sharjah — An exhibition titled ‘The Echo of Caravans: Pre-Islamic Civilisation Sites in the Saudi Arabia’ was inaugurated by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and Prince Sultan bin Salman bin Abdul Aziz, president of Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage.
The exhibition, organised by the Sharjah Museums Authority and the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage, will run at the Sharjah Archaeology Museum until January 31, 2019.
Featuring a total of 50 archaeological artefacts, the exhibit reveals cultural similarities, close societal bonds and shared customs and ideas that existed between the ancient communities of Arabia.
Manal Ataya, director-general of the Sharjah Museums Authority, said: “Through a complex network of trade routes that criss-crossed the peninsula, people living in towns and villages throughout Ara- bia were able to communicate, barter and trade while also sharing knowledge of latest tools and other tradable goods. This interaction took place long before the advent of currencies, coinage or transactions for monetary gain.”
She added that six artefacts from the Sharjah Archaeology Museum’s collection are also displayed alongside objects from Saudi Arabia. “Dating from the period of 1600BC to 300AD, these artifacts were found at archaeological sites in Mleiha, Muwaileh, and Jebel Al Buhais.”
Al Ataya said the exhibition paints a vivid picture of the ancient history of the Arabian Peninsula by closely examining the artefacts that were important to the people,
We will continue to work with our counterparts in other countries to use Sharjah as a hub of culture and heritage.”
Manal Ataya, director-general, Sharjah Museums Authority
cultures and communities who lived here. “Despite the harshness of the environment and distances navigated, a vibrant and interconnected society flourished. The superb collection of the rare artefacts on display reveal a remarkable level of sophistication and craftsmanship and a thriving trade network that facilitated shared culture and knowledge.”
Ataya added the exhibition reflects
the historical connection between Arab nations. “We will continue to work with our counterparts in other countries to use Sharjah as a hub of culture and heritage.”