Editor’s Note — This CNN Travel series is, or was, sponsored by the country it highlights. CNN retains full editorial control over subject matter, reporting and frequency of the articles and videos within the sponsorship, in compliance with our policy.(CNN) — Qatar hasn’t only been busy building soccer stadiums but also a slew of architecturally striking and accessible museums in its well-documented quest to be recognized as the arts capital of the Arabian Peninsula. Qatar travel guideMost of the Gulf nation’s major museums have opened or been renovated during the past decade, with three additional art institutions scheduled to expand Qatar’s cultural offerings by 2030: the Lusail Museum showcasing Qatar Museums’ Orientalist collection; the Art Mill Museum focused on contemporary art; and the Qatar Auto Museum celebrating the nation’s obsession with luxury cars.
Public art, too, continues to proliferate, with US sculptor Jeff Koons’ colossal “Dugong” among 40 new public works…
2023-01-27 17:00:22 From 700 million years ago to the World Cup: Inside Qatar’s best museums
Article from www.cnn.com Qatar is a small, but highly developed Middle Eastern country, renowned for its world-class museums and cultural attractions. From 700 million-year-old fossils, petroglyphs and artifacts to Qatar’s very own World Cup Museum, Qatar’s museums offer an impressive array of art, artifacts and cultural gems.
The Qatar National Museum, located a few kilometres from the capital city of Doha, is one of the oldest in the world. Rich in history and culture, this museum allows visitors to explore various artifacts and historical pieces from Qatar’s past. Here, visitors can get up close and personal with fossils and artifacts dating back to 700 million years ago and explore the country’s rich culture, history and art.
The Mathaf: Arab Museum of Modern Art is Qatar’s most esteemed art museum. Showcasing contemporary Arab art and culture, the museum has over 6,000 works of art, including installations, sculptures, video art and photography. Also, in the permanent collection, visitors can explore and admire work of exceptional modern Arab artists.
As Qatar gears up to host 14 venues for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, it has opened up its very own Qatar World Cup Museum. This interactive museum is a one-of-a-kind experience for all football fans. From player stats and interactive displays to a 3D theatre, virtual reality experiences and replica trophies, the museum offers an immersive and exciting experience for all.
For visitors wanting to learn more about the Gulf region and its lifestyle, the Museum of Islamic Art is a must-see. Home to over 650 artifacts and pieces of Islamic art, the museum offers an informative and fascinating insight into both Islamic art and culture. The highlight of the Museum is the 15th- century collections of Islamic manuscripts, ceramics, jewelry, glass and metalwork.
Qatar is indeed a treasure trove of exciting and enriching museums and cultural attractions. From 700 million-year-old artifacts, petroglyphs, modern art and its very own World Cup Museum, Qatar has something for everyone.