Riyadh, 08 August 2023, The Saudi National Museum serves as a significant cultural conduit, seamlessly linking the realms of antiquity, contemporary times, and the trajectory of the future. It stands as a distinctive and specialized monument, meticulously chronicling the historical narrative of the Arabian Peninsula. Its primary objective lies in accentuating the grandeur and magnificence of bygone eras while simultaneously showcasing a comprehensive panorama of diverse historical epochs, ranging from the earliest to the most recent.
The museum was inaugurated in the year 1383 H/64, during the tenure of the esteemed Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman Abdul Aziz Al Saud, who at that time held the esteemed position of governor of the Riyadh region. Its noble purpose is to safeguard antiquities, human accomplishments, and the various manifestations of the cultural legacy of the Arabian Peninsula, spanning from ancient times to the present era in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, it endeavors to exhibit these invaluable treasures to forthcoming generations, ensuring their appreciation and understanding.
The inauguration of the new headquarters of the Saudi National Museum took place under the auspices of the esteemed Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Fahd bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, during the year 1419 AH. This momentous occasion occurred in the Murabaa district of Riyadh, thereby solidifying its status as a paramount cultural, tourist, and civilizational landmark within the city of Riyadh.
The museum is composed of a total of eight rooms, strategically distributed across two levels and meticulously organized in a sequential manner that adheres to the passage of time. Commencing this journey, visitors are first introduced to the expansive "Room of Man and the Universe," spanning an impressive expanse of 1500 square meters. This particular space is dedicated to the exploration of four distinct themes: the genesis of the universe and our planet; the natural forces that have shaped Earth; the ancient environments that once thrived; and finally, the initial inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula. The room is adorned with colossal animal fossils as well as fragments of human skeletal remains that can be traced back to a remarkable antiquity of 85,000 years.
The visitor proceeds to the esteemed Hall of the Arab Kingdoms, a captivating exhibition that delves into the intricacies of life within the Arabian Peninsula. This enlightening display spans a vast historical timeline, encompassing the era from the fourth millennium BC to the fourth century AD. Within this hall, particular emphasis is placed upon the remnants of numerous culturally diverse cities, offering a comprehensive understanding of their existence. Following this immersive experience, the visitor is guided to the distinguished Hall of the Pre-Islamic Era. This section of the exhibition meticulously portrays the period spanning from the fourth century AD to the momentous mission of the Prophet, Blessed be He. By exploring this hall, one gains invaluable insights into the historical context preceding the advent of Islam. The esteemed visitor shall have the opportunity to partake in a visitation to the renowned Arab markets, wherein they shall be graced with the auditory experience of excerpts from poetry. These poetic renditions serve as a symbol, representing the remarkable displays of eloquence and the illustrious Arab rhetoric. Furthermore, the visitor shall embark upon a journey of exploration, delving into the diverse cultural, social, and political facets that characterized the Arabian Peninsula during that era.
We transition to the esteemed hall of the prophetic mission, wherein lies an exposition of the prophet's illustrious biography—may divine blessings and peace be upon him—encompassing his lineage, nativity, and existence. Furthermore, this sacred space houses meticulously transcribed renditions of the Holy Quran. The culmination of this expedition manifests itself in a captivating succession within the confines of the Hall of Islam and the Arabian Peninsula. Within this space, one is privy to a comprehensive portrayal of the paramount and intricate episodes pertaining to the biography of the esteemed Prophet, may peace and blessings be bestowed upon him, as well as the sagacious Rightly Guided Caliphs, the influential Umayyad and Abbasid dynasties, and ultimately, the Mamluk era. In a sequential chronology, the visitor engages in a visitation to the esteemed Saudi State Stadium. Within its premises lies the Hall of the First and Second Saudi States, an area of great significance where one may acquaint oneself with the various stages of this historical narrative. Commencing with the establishment of the initial Saudi State in the year 1727, the visitor is exposed to the historical events that transpired within its walls. Progressing further, one encounters the Second Saudi State, which flourished under the leadership of the esteemed Imam Turki bin Abdullah. This period of historical significance ultimately culminated in the unification of the kingdom. Subsequently, the visitor is led to the Hall of Hajj and the two holy mosques, a space that encapsulates the dawn of Islam up until the present day. Within this sacred realm, one is privileged to witness a plethora of rare Islamic collections, thereby enriching their understanding of this esteemed faith.
