MIA celebrates 10th anniversary with ‘Syria Matters’ exhibition

The Museum of Islamic Art (MIA) marked its 10th anniversary on Wednesday with the opening of ‘Syria Matters’ exhibition, featuring over 100 artefacts dating back from Syria’s early pre-Islamic period (ninth century BCE).

Held under the patronage of Qatar Museums (QM) chairperson HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani, the celebration was attended by HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of State for Defence Affairs, Dr Khalid bin Mohamed al-Attiyah, and other dignitaries.

Speaking at a press tour yesterday, MIA director Dr Julia Gonnella said that the exhibition, which will run until April 30, is divided into five sections, shedding light on Syria’s rich architectural and cultural history.

“We are marking our 10th anniversary with a major exhibition, dedicated to Syria, a cradle of civilisation, as part of our commitment to safeguarding the rich culture that has been tragically lost in the civil war,” said Dr Gonnella, who also co-curated the exhibition with special curator Rania Abdellatif.