Where Unique Artistry and Profound Traditions Meet!
Not even 40 years ago Doha, the capital of Qatar was a fishing village engaged in the pearling industry. Today it boasts modern skyscrapers, a spectacular West Bay area and a sound economy. Yet underlying the modernity is the nation’s drive to preserve its cultural identity with Islamic and Arabesque features.
Museums of Qatar
In the recent past, Qatar has been at the forefront of hosting many International Events on their home soil. Being well equipped to host people from all over the world, Qataris are a hospitable nation making its visitors feel welcome. As discerning travellers to this country on the Arabian Peninsula endowed with alluring beaches and fascinating desert landscape feel inspired by the artistic features, rich cultural heritage and deep-rooted traditions which make Qatar the quintessential Arabian Nation it is. An interesting and inspiring way to do this is by visiting some of the Museums of Qatar which are frequently enjoyed by visitors from hotels in Doha.
- National Museum of Qatar – Built around the original palace of Sheikh Abdullah bin Jassim Al-Thani, a former ruler of the state of Qatar, the structure of the museum itself is a piece of artistry by recreating the desert rose effect whilst preserving the heritage of the nation by using the palace the ruler’s seat for 25 years, as a main feature of the museum. The exhibits showcase the history over the years and modern influences that have resulted in the changes you encounter in the city.
- Museum of Islamic Arts – This landmark building demonstrates a beautiful fusion of traditional Islamic architecture with innovations of the present century an inspiration to even non-Islamic visitors.
- Msheireb Museums – As a part of developing Msheireb which is in the oldest part of Doha, 4 Heritage Houses have been created depicting the eclectic mix of eras that constitute the civilization we witness today.
Bin Jelmood House – This house symbolizes the cultural, social, and economic contribution of enslaved people of an ancient era to develop civilization.
Company House – Created within a house earlier used for the first oil company of Qatar, this museum depicts the story of the workers and families of the Qatari Petroleum Industry that helped transform Qatar into the prosperous modern economy we see today.
Mohammed Bin Jassim House – Be inspired by the outstanding architectural heritage of this house built by the son of the founder of modern Qatar which looks at the past, the present and the future in terms of sustainability.
Radwani House – This house depicts the inimitable spirit of the traditional Qatari family life by showcasing how Qatari family life has evolved over the years.
Exploring Culture
Strongly influenced by the traditional Bedouin culture, softer influences from the Indian Sub-Continent, East Africa and the Persian Gulf are noticed. Qatar’s earlier inhabitants have embraced the sea for sustenance, trade and as a solace for harsh climatic conditions. As visitors to this land of intrigue and surprises, one must be aware of the deep Islamic Culture encouraging conservativeness in dress and conduct when venturing out from your hotel such as Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels to explore more of Qatar.
Katara Cultural Village – So named using the ancient name of the land (Katara), this is a charming village created using the beach promenade to the maximum. A series of exhibition galleries and an open-air Amphitheatre showcase mastery in architecture whilst the exhibits demonstrate the cultural features. With the beach close by and many restaurants offering varied cuisine including Qatari cuisine a visit here makes one replete with Qatari culture and cuisine.
Katara Mosque – Located within the cultural village this beautiful place of worship stands out against the other buildings in blue and gold and is called the Blue Mosque. Depicting meticulous Turkish and Persian tile work in these two hues. This is one of the mosques within the village and is the bigger one, the other is smaller and is equally beautiful with tiling in golden hues and therefore called the Gold Mosque.
Souq Waqif – This iconic souq has stood the test of time for many generations and visiting here is a truly profound experience. Located on the banks of Wadi Musheireb the souq has been renovated in the recent past however, preserving its façade and the unique atmosphere. A hive of activity with throngs of people, this is an ideal spot to witness unique Qatari culture. People shop, indulge in gossip, and enjoy a Kahwa (Qatari coffee) among other activities.
Inspiring Traditions
Numerous guiding traditions of Qatar are intertwined with its culture and heritage, as visitors an understanding of these makes one more appreciative of the people and the country.
Kahwa Tradition – This is a symbolic tradition in Qatar, an expression of welcome to visitors. The coffee pot is tall and has a unique shape from which the freshly brewed aromatic coffee flavoured with cardamoms is poured into tiny coffee cups with no handles. When served they are accepted with the right hand and savoured, the host will keep topping it up until the visitor has had enough, which is signalled by gently shaking it from side to side. It is also symbolic to serve sweet and juicy dates along with the coffee.
Ramadan Tradition – The ninth month of the Islamic Lunar Calendar and the most important one during which period every Muslim performs Ramadan by abstaining from food and drink from sunrise to sunset. This is a period of spiritual reflection and is observed by Muslims of all walks of life. This is also the time many Muslims generously give to the more needy than them.
Eid Tradition – After one month of fasting during the ninth month, the Qatari feast heralding Eid Al Fitr and two months later when the performance of the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca is completed festivities with food and drink are enjoyed for a few days marking the end of Hajj with Eid Al Adha. Traditional food and drink are consumed with happiness during these periods.
Qatar remains a land of fascination which offers its visitors a rich cultural and artistic experience that goes hand in hand with profound local traditions despite the grandeur of architecture and modern facilities.
