In the wake of the Abu Dhabi Festival and WOMAD, we’ve been feeling all cultured and cerebral lately. Keeping the brain waves flowing, we got (just a little) dressed up and headed over to Manarat Al Saadiyat to check out the new Splendours of Mesopotamia exhibit.
Providing a taste of what’s to come in the much-anticipated Zayed National Museum set to open in 2014, this exhibit is an extraordinary look at the past. Though you’re welcome to examine the collection on your own, if you’ve got the time you might enjoy the hugely informative guided tour which is available in several different languages. Give them enough notice and the exhibit organisers can accommodate tours for groups and special language requests.
In the mood to savour the silence, we opted for the self-guided wander. It was astounding to imagine the civilisation that would have spoken this language and crafted these objects. We were especially touched envisioning the women who would have worn the jewellery we saw on display in a land so close but a culture so different. Even better, once our brains were full, we were able to head over to Al Fanr for a spot of dinner to satisfy our stomachs.
If looking isn’t enough, check out the range of lectures and workshops going on at Manarat Al Saadiyat to support the exhibit – make your own cuneiform tablet or let your kids try their hand at Mesopotamian metalworking. You won’t want to miss the Artful Afternoon
Tea either, where you can have a cuppa and a snack, see the exhibit and get creative with your new-found Mesopotamian inspiration.
Call 02 657 5900 to find out more.
Laura Fulton
