The artefacts include ceramics, manuscripts and textiles.
Jeddah is home to world-class art exhibitions and events, and now it has welcomed a new museum, the House of Islamic Arts. Located in Jeddah Park, it spans six galleries and is home to more than 10,000 artefacts. If you’re looking for a dose of culture, here’s what you need to know.
The House of Islamic Arts is the first museum of its kind in Saudi Arabia. It prides itself on showcasing artefacts from across the Muslim world, including regions such as Andalusia, China, India, the Maghreb, and more.
If you’re in search of historic artefacts, there are plenty of pieces to explore. Each gallery focuses on a different area of Islamic heritage. The first gallery features ceramics and glassworks dating from the 7th to the 16th century. The second gallery includes metalworks from the 7th to the 19th century.
The third gallery boasts 500 coins, including some from the time of the Prophet Mohammed. The fourth gallery explores how Islam has influenced different countries, particularly its impact on European cultures and civilisations. The fifth gallery offers a chance to view rare Quranic manuscripts, while the sixth showcases textiles, including the Kaaba covering and the Shammi Gate curtain.
Plus, if you’d like to deepen your understanding of Islam, be sure to visit the well-stocked library. It houses a wide range of books on Islamic culture, history, and literature.
If you’d like to visit other galleries in Jeddah, you are spoilt for choice. Read our guide to the art galleries in Jeddah, from Adham Arts Centre to Arthr Gallery.
Check in with FACT for the best things to do in Jeddah.
GO: Visit www.iarts.sa for more information.