Doha, November 24 (QNA) - The National Museum of Qatar (NMQ) today organized the "Heritage of A Nation" forum, which explored key aspects of the old palace, now part of the museum, focusing on its architectural design and historical significance. The forum was attended by HE Undersecretary of the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, Dr. Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Ghanem Al Thani and CEO of Qatar Museums, Mohammed Saad Al Remaihi.
During the forum, a panel discussion was held to discuss the history of the National Museum's establishment in 1975.
In this context, NMQ Director, HE Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Hamad Al-Thani said: "The National Museum of Qatar represents a prominent landmark in our country's history. It is not merely a former seat of government, but the first national museum established in the region. From it, the beginnings of museum work in Qatar and the journey of preserving its heritage and showcasing its rich history were launched."
He added: "As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the museum this year, this forum underscores its firmly established place in the national consciousness as a symbol of the beginnings of cultural work and a starting point for the development of museums in Qatar."
He noted that this forum serves as a platform for experts, researchers, and members of the community to exchange knowledge and perspectives on the legacy of the Old Palace through dialogue sessions and events that highlight its historical and architectural value. It also aims to deepen public awareness of the importance of this national landmark, in addition to preparing a comprehensive documentary study that preserves the discussions and outcomes of the forum, thus enriching the legacy of knowledge associated with the museum's history.
He emphasized that organizing this gathering embodies the National Museum of Qatar's commitment to its role as a leading cultural institution working to build awareness, sustain knowledge, and connect the past with the present, thereby strengthening our pride in our history and national identity and paving the way for a future worthy of our rich cultural heritage.
For her part, Awareness Programs Specialist at the Education and Awareness Department of the NMQ, Reem Malallah told Qatar News Agency (QNA) that the "Heritage of A Nation" Forum aims to highlight the history of the old National Museum of Qatar. During the forum, a dialogue session was held today, focusing on the first theme: "The History of the National Museum's Establishment in 1975." Participants included Deputy Director of Collections and Research at NMQ, Dr. Abdullah Al Sulaiti and Mohammed Buhendi , Advisor at NMQ. They discussed the history of the National Museum and presented historical maps of Qatar, highlighting prominent landmarks, palaces, and cities of that era, as well as the museum's original design methods.
She noted that the second session of the forum will be held on April 5th and will discuss "Architecture in the Old Palace," while the third and final session will take place on August 31st and will focus on "Treasures of the National Museum of Qatar."
She concluded by emphasizing that such forums document the history of the old palace, including its origins, architecture, its transformation into a national museum, and the methods used to preserve its heritage and collections. (QNA)