SimplyAbuDhabi XXXVIII

Tour the areas of Qasr Al Watan In addition to the Great Hall, there are several notable areas of Qasr Al Watan that are open to the public, allowing the people of the UAE and tourists alike an unprecedented view into the formal spaces used for state occasions, as well libraries, gardens and special exhibits. Beginning in the East Wing, visitors can embark on their enlightening journey in the House of Knowledge, which houses an impressive collection of artefacts and rare manuscripts originating in the Arab world and highlighting its contributions to science and mathematics, literature and the arts. Throughout the two rooms comprising the House of Knowledge, there is a wealth of accumulated scholarly learning. A collection of ancient manuscripts, going back several centuries, features high points in the history of the written word throughout the Arab tradition. A replica of the Birmingham manuscript of the Holy Qur’an represents the earliest surviving holy book written in the ancient script of Hijazi, one of the earliest forms of Arabic calligraphy. Prince Charles of the UK gifted this copy to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, in 2016. The manuscript collection also includes a copy of the 13th- century Atlas Manuscript on Astronomy, filled with astronomical tabulations and maps of Earth; the Explanation of Lamiat Al- Zukak on law and judiciary rules and antiquities from the Arab world; and the Encyclopaedia of Natural History, a compendium of 20,000 facts compiled by the Roman scholar, Pliny the Elder (23-79 AD), the most important source of geographical and scientific knowledge in classical antiquity. Elsewhere throughout the House of Knowledge are displayed rare artefacts and historic maps that showcase some of the most important contributions to human knowledge made during the period of enlightenment known to as the Arab Golden Age. One incredible example is a 16th-century Italian map, created based on discoveries by Portuguese explorers, which is the earliest known mention on a map of Abu Dhabi. Leaving the House of Knowledge and heading back to the Great Hall, be sure to investigate the exquisite gold sculpture called “The Power of Words” by Emirati artist Mattar Bin Lahej. The oval-shaped artwork, impressive in its scale, is made up of interlaced strips of gold, embossed with stylised Arabic script which spells out a quote by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Father of the UAE: “Wealth is not money or oil. Wealth lies in people and it is worthless if not dedicated to serve the people.” Truly a powerful message for the ages, and one that lies at the very heart of Qasr Al Watan’s mission. Visitors are encouraged to step inside the beautiful structure to reflect on the wise words of Sheikh Zayed and admire the remarkable handiwork of a local artist – and perhaps take a few Insta-worthy photos as well. Simply Abu Dhabi | 53