Iraqi Prime Minister al-Sudani has announced fortified exhibition halls for displaying recovered artifacts, including the Nimrud Treasure. During a recent visit to the Iraqi National Museum, he highlighted the historical importance of Mesopotamian civilizations and emphasized the government’s commitment to cultural heritage. Various artifacts retrieved from abroad will also be showcased, further illustrating Iraq’s rich ancient history.
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has mandated the establishment of fortified exhibition halls to showcase recovered antiquities from both the Central Bank of Iraq and artifacts repatriated from abroad. During his recent visit to the Iraqi National Museum in Baghdad, he inaugurated an exhibition featuring these recovered items, emphasizing their importance to Iraqi cultural heritage.
Al-Sudani inspected the museum’s storage facilities, which include the renowned Nimrud Treasure and other significant antiquities that had been held at the Central Bank since the 1990s. These items were transferred to the museum a couple of days ago and will be displayed in a specially constructed hall designed to protect and make them accessible to the public.
In his remarks, Al-Sudani highlighted the commitment of the Iraqi government to protect the nation’s cultural heritage, referencing the historical significance of Mesopotamian civilizations in contributing to global progress. He also addressed concerns regarding the alleged disappearance of these treasures and reaffirmed their safety.
The Prime Minister noted that artifacts from the Central Bank will be exhibited in secure halls with advanced preservation standards, which are intended to appeal to both local and international visitors. Improvement of the museum’s infrastructure is a priority to foster global interest and showcase Iraq’s stability.
The Nimrud Treasure includes a variety of gold jewelry and ornaments dating back to the Neo-Assyrian period (911–612 BCE). Other artifacts of significance include the statue of Gudea from the ancient Sumerian city-state of Lagash and a bronze mask of King Sargon of Akkad, as well as several other crucial items.
The recovered artifacts also feature over 6,000 cuneiform tablets, inscribed cones, stone slabs, cylinder seals, and a diverse range of ancient coins and figurines. Among these items are Mandaean scrolls, ivory carvings, gold vessels styled in the Assyrian manner, ceramic plaques, and notable objects from the Royal Cemetery of Ur, all showcasing the extensive history of Iraq.
The establishment of secure exhibition halls in Iraq’s museums marks a significant step in preserving and promoting the country’s rich cultural heritage. The recovered artifacts, particularly the Nimrud Treasure, underscore the historical importance of Mesopotamian civilizations. The government’s commitment to maintaining archaeological integrity and enhancing visitor experience seeks to attract global interest and affirm Iraq’s stability amidst ongoing cultural preservation efforts.
Original Source: shafaq.com
