A treasure trove of archaeological and historic artifacts, The National Museum of Damascus is a major tourist attraction of the city.
The National Museum of Damascus is one of the significant tourist attractions in the Syrian capital. Open on all days of the week except on Tuesdays, the museum showcases the objects belonging to the rich and varied past of the country. The museum remains open from 9.00 in the morning till 6.00 in the evening (4.00 pm in winter). A nominal fee is charged for entrance to the museum.
The National Museum of Damascus- The structure
The original National Museum of Damascus was established in 1919 as part of the Madrasseh al Adiliyeh. The present structure was built during 1935-1979. Various reconstructions have been done in monuments like the Synagogue of Dura Europos (3rd century AD), the entrance to the Yalbugha Mosque, the underground chamber of Yarhay from Palmyra (108 AD), the exteriors of Qasr al- Hair al Gharbi (727 AD) and so on.
The National Museum of Damascus- The galleries
The National Museum of Damascus comprises numerous rooms, displaying objects belonging to particular phases of Syrian history. The prominent galleries inside the museum are as follows:
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- Gallery of Syrian Prehistory- Articles belonging to the prehistoric times have been excavated from places like the Euphrates, the Crontes basin, Tell Ramad. Exhibited in this room, these artifacts provide a glimpse of the earliest human civilization in Syria.
- Gallery of Ancient Antiquities of Syria- A huge repertoire of antiquities from places like Mari and Ebla are on display including the bust of a Syrian king, a model house, statues like that of Ur Nina, and so on. However, the main attraction in the room is the clay tablet containing the Ugarit alphabet, the oldest known alphabet of the world.
- Gallery of Classical Antiquities- Frescoes, sculptures, coins, mosaics, jewelry and others found in Djebel al- Arab, Hauran and others occupy this display. The Palmyrenean artifacts offer a fascinating view of the past.
- Gallery of Arab-Islamic Arts- Showcasing the wonderful items including the Qasr al Hair fresco, memorial of Khatoun and Khaled Ben al Walid, ceramics, earthenware, stucco windows and precious manuscripts, this area epitomizes the brilliance of Muslim artistic skills.
- Contemporary Art Gallery- On display is the works of native as well as international artists.
The building of The National Museum of Damascus is located on an open space which also displays various stone artifacts symbolizing the artistic excellence of the past.
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