Iraq’s Prime Minister Announces Secure Display of Recovered Artifacts

Iraq’s Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia al-Sudani, has announced the allocation of secure exhibition halls for the display of recovered antiquities at the Iraqi National Museum. He emphasized the importance of preserving the historical artifacts, including the significant Nimrud Treasure, while addressing concerns over their security. Recently retrieved artifacts from various countries will also be showcased, enhancing Iraq’s cultural heritage and potential for global engagement.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani has announced the establishment of fortified exhibition halls to display and protect recovered artifacts, including those previously housed at the Central Bank of Iraq and artifacts repatriated from various nations. On Thursday, following a visit to the Iraqi National Museum in Baghdad, al-Sudani inaugurated an exhibition highlighting artifacts retrieved through government efforts from multiple countries.

During his visit, al-Sudani inspected the museum’s storage facilities containing the esteemed Nimrud Treasure and other valuable relics that had been in the Central Bank’s custody since the 1990s. The artifacts were transferred to the museum just two days prior and will be showcased in specially designed halls to facilitate preservation and public accessibility.

Emphasizing the historical importance of Mesopotamian civilizations in contributing to humanity’s progress, al-Sudani reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding Iraq’s cultural heritage. He addressed concerns regarding the potential disappearance or loss of treasured artifacts, specifically the Nimrud Treasure, asserting the importance of their security.

“Artifacts previously stored at the Central Bank will be exhibited in high-security halls with advanced preservation standards, enabling both local and international visitors to view them,” stated the Prime Minister. He highlighted the necessity of improving the museum’s infrastructure to foster global interest and demonstrate Iraq’s stability.

The Nimrud Treasure, which includes gold jewelry and ornaments from the Neo-Assyrian period (911–612 BCE), is a significant part of the exhibition. Among the other notable artifacts are the statue of Gudea, a ruler of Lagash, and a bronze mask representing King Sargon of Akkad.

Additionally, recently recovered artifacts, sourced from the United States, the United Kingdom, Italy, Germany, and Jordan, span various eras of Iraq’s ancient history. These include over 6,000 cuneiform tablets, inscribed cones, and a variety of other significant relics such as Mandaean scrolls, ivory carvings, and ceramics from the Royal Cemetery of Ur.

In conclusion, Iraq’s initiative to allocate secure exhibition halls for displaying its recovered artifacts underscores a deep commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage. Emphasizing the historical significance of these treasures amid concerns about their security highlights the nation’s efforts to enhance its international presence and attract visitors. Iraq’s ongoing efforts to recover and display these artifacts showcase the importance of its ancient civilizations and their contributions to human history.

Original Source: shafaq.com