In a landmark moment for cultural diplomacy, Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi – the Ambassador of the Faya Palaeolandscape World Heritage Nomination File and Chairperson for Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) – inaugurated the trailblazing exhibition From Sharjah to Rome via the Spice Route at the historic Curia Julia in the Colosseum Archaeological Park. This prestigious event, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, marks the first Arab exhibition hosted within the ancient Roman senate building, solidifying Sharjah’s influential role in global archaeological and heritage preservation.
A Convergence of Civilizations
Running until May 4, 2025, the exhibition presents an extraordinary collection of 110 rare artefacts, each painstakingly unearthed from Sharjah’s storied trade centers, including the ancient sites of Mleiha and Dibba Al-Hisn. These relics narrate a vibrant chapter of history that stretches from the 3rd century BCE to the 1st century CE, when the Arabian Gulf serves as a bustling nexus of trade and cultural exchange with the Roman Empire. The artefacts not only illuminate Sharjah’s past prominence but also underscore its enduring legacy as a crossroads of commerce and creativity along the famed Spice Route.
Bridging Worlds Through Archaeology
Curated by the Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA) in close collaboration with Rome’s esteemed heritage institutions, the exhibition is a masterful display of cultural dialogue across time and space. The meticulously selected collection includes Roman glass and Greek empires. Each piece is a tangible testament to the dynamic interactions between Arab traders and mediterranean merchants – an exchange that went far beyond the mere transfer of luxury goods such as incense, spice, and textiles. This cross – pollination of artistic influences, technological innovations, and artisanal craftsmanship offers a profound insight into the ancient networks that wove together the fabric of East and West.
The event was graced by prominent figures including Sheikh Fahim bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Department of Government Relations; Eisa Yousif, Director-General of Sharjah Archaeology Authority; and Alfonsia Russo, Director of the Colosseum Archaeological Park. Their presence, along with that of other distinguished government officials and cultural dignitaries from the UAE and Italy, highlighted the deep commitment of both nations to preserving and celebrating shared heritage.
The Spice Route: A Timeless Connector
At the heart of the exhibition lies the historical Spice Route - a network that once connected Asia, the Arabian Gulf, and Europe. The ancient ports of Mleiha and Dibba Al – Hisn emerged as strategic hubs that not only facilitated the movement of coveted luxury goods but also became vibrant centers for the exchange of ideas, technologies, and artistic sensibilities. This dynamic interplay between diverse cultures is poignantly captured in the exhibition, inviting visitors to reflect on how trade and travel have long served as catalysts for innovation and cultural enrichment.
A Vision for the Future
From Sharjah to Rome via the Spice Route is more than an exhibition – it is a bold statement of cultural unity and historical continuity. By hosting this landmark event within one of Rome’s most iconic monuments, Sharjah asserts its position on the global stage as a custodian of heritage and a visionary of cultural diplomacy. The exhibition not only celebrates the illustrious past of the Arabian Gulf but also inspired contemporary dialogue about identity, connectivity, and the transformative power of cultural exchange.
As the exhibition continues to draw art enthusiasts, historians, and luxury connoisseurs from around the world, it stands a s shining example of how heritage and culture can bridge borders, weaving together a shared narrative of human ingenuity and artistic expression.
