7 Things You Didn't Know About The Most Popular Museums In Qatar
If you’ve ever visited a museum, then you’d probably noticed that museum visitors usually belong in one of the two following categories; those who wander around ecstatic, soaking every bit of information available – those are the museum lovers who find each visit amusing and deeply educating. And there’s the second category – those who hate visiting museums simply because they find it boring and pointless.
Museums in Qatar form an important part of the country, as they demonstrate the rich cultural heritage through the centuries of Qatari history and traditions. They are modern, state-of-the-art organizations that take museums beyond four walls, making sure everyone takes part in the cultural experience Qatar has to offer.
If you plan on visiting Qatar soon and belong to the second category of visitors, keep reading to discover interesting facts about the most popular museums in Qatar that will make you reconsider!
1. Did you know, for instance, that the National Museum of Qatar offers playful, interactive activities specifically designed for families and children?
2. Did you know that the National Museum of Qatar, which officially opened its doors to the public in March 2019, introduced a wide variety of interactive activities, made to creatively engage both kids and adults in an exciting but also playful and cultivating way? With that being said, when you visit this architectural masterpiece don’t hesitate and definitely bring your kids along; they’re going to love it!
3. Did you know that Qatar’s iconic Museum of Islamic Art (MIA), has a rather unique design for a museum? Its main building is made of limestone - a material made to capture the changes in light and shade during the day, creating a mesmerizing view. MIA is the country’s pride and it is widely known for the vast collection of Islamic art and various masterpieces. It attracts thousands of visitors every year, presenting rare manuscripts, fine textiles, intricate jewellery, elaborate ceramics and more collections that represent Qatar’s culture and heritage.
4. Did you know that the MATHAF, the Arab Museum of Modern Art houses over 9,000 artworks created in Qatar and the Middle East and can be described as the world’s largest specialized collection of its kind? Mathaf also showcases various paintings and exhibitions by artists in the region.
5. Did you know that the Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum holds an amazing collection of vintage cars? Apart from that, Sheikh Faisal’s Museum owns various collections of rare coins, dinosaur and other unique fossils, Islamic carpets and textiles and more. All of the museum’s precious artifacts were carefully selected by the leading businessman, Sheikh Faisal - this is his magnificent private collection, open for the public to enjoy.
6. Did you know that the Msheireb Museums consist of four historic heritage houses? Bin Jelmood House, Company House, Mohammed Bin Jassim House and Radwani House were all transformed into world-class museums, showcasing Qatar’s tradition and the changes the country has gone through in the last century. Built in the first decade of the 20th century, the houses were restored to be used as museums but maintain their authenticity. Each house has a different story to tell and reveals unique aspects of the country’s culture.
7. Did you know that the Arab Postal Stamps Museum holds a collection of more than 32,000 stamps from 22 Arab countries, dating back to more than 30 years? The stamps unfold different eras of the Arab world, whilst there are stamps from other countries as well. All collections are beautiful with vibrant designs.
There is always something new to learn and discover in Qatar. We hope that you will schedule a visit to one or more of the Qatari museums to discover everything they have to offer!