Sharjah Hosts “Andalusian Cultural Landscapes” Exhibition

Sharjah opened its doors to the rich history and beauty of Andalusia as Sheikh Dr Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Ruler's Office, inaugurated the “Andalusian Cultural Landscapes” exhibition on Wednesday. The exhibition, a collaboration between the Sharjah Museums Authority and Spain’s Islamic Culture Foundation (FUNCI), will run until April 12, 2026, offering visitors a window into the vibrant Islamic civilisation that thrived on the Iberian Peninsula.

The exhibition is divided into two main themes. “Gardens of Bliss” explores the multi-dimensional role of gardens in Andalusia, from productive spaces for growing food to spiritual retreats for reflection and inspiration. Visitors can discover the scientific garden as a living classroom, the poetic garden inspiring artists and writers, and the spiritual garden fostering peace and contemplation.

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The second theme, “The Good Country,” delves into the human-environment relationship in Andalusia. It showcases traditional irrigation methods, rain-fed farming, local crafts, and markets, highlighting the ingenuity of communities that shaped the land over centuries. Together, these themes reflect how Andalusians balanced nature, creativity, and culture.

Over 60 carefully curated artifacts are on display, including items being exhibited in Sharjah for the first time. They vividly capture Andalusia’s cultural and agricultural heritage, blending aesthetic beauty with historical depth. The exhibition also features models and multimedia displays, offering lessons from the past that resonate with today’s environmental and cultural challenges.

Visitors are invited to a series of cultural and scientific activities, including a discussion session titled “A Journey Through the Heritage of Andalusia: Knowledge and Cultural Exchange,” where experts from Spain and the UAE explore the enduring impact of Islamic culture on the Iberian Peninsula. Guided tours further enrich the experience, connecting historical knowledge to contemporary insights.

The exhibition emphasizes Andalusia as a meeting point of civilizations, a hub where Eastern and Western ideas merged, fueling innovation in science, arts, and agriculture. It demonstrates the timeless value of cultural exchange and serves as a bridge linking Mediterranean, European, and Islamic heritage.

The opening ceremony was attended by Spanish Ambassador Emilio Pin Godos, along with senior Sharjah officials including Asma Rashid Bin Taliah, Secretary-General of the Sharjah Executive Council, and Aisha Rashid Deemas, Director-General of the Sharjah Museums Authority. Sheikh Dr Salem bin Abdulrahman received a collection of publications from FUNCI, marking the first collaboration between the two cultural institutions in Sharjah.