Diriyah: The Diriyah Gate Development Authority concluded its celebrations of International Museum Day, featuring a series of cultural programs and activities aimed at transforming the museums of At-Turaif Historical District into a vibrant and interactive cultural experience for visitors and heritage enthusiasts alike.
According to Saudi Press Agency, At-Turaif Historical District, which has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010 and is considered one of the world's largest mudbrick-built heritage districts, hosted a diverse range of activities. Among the highlights was the 'Tours and Stories from Diriyah's Palaces' program, which offered immersive storytelling experiences recounting the historical events witnessed by these palaces that shaped the foundations of the First Saudi State.
The accompanying events also included an 'Architectural Sketching' program, during which the authority organized a number of sessions introducing participants to the fundamentals of architectural drawing and showcasing the beauty of Najdi architecture in Diriyah under the guidance of professional architectural illustrators.
In addition, the program featured workshops held at the Military Museum to introduce best museum practices in preserving archaeological collections and artifacts. The workshops focused on proper methods for handling, storing, and displaying collections in line with professional museum management standards.
The events witnessed remarkable attendance from various age groups and individuals interested in the museum and heritage sector, reflecting the Diriyah Gate Development Authority's efforts to engage both the local community and visitors in celebrating the Kingdom's human and cultural heritage, while promoting participation in international heritage occasions. Diriyah continues to stand as a distinguished cultural beacon and a globally recognized historical destination.
Renowned for embodying the political and historical significance of the First Saudi State, At-Turaif Historical District offers a distinctive atmosphere that gives visitors the impression of walking through a living museum. The district reflects many aspects of social and daily life during that era, while highlighting the unique Najdi architectural style and its intricate details, from mudbrick walls to traditional engravings that continue to tell stories of the past and its enduring legacy.
At-Turaif Historical District spans approximately 235,000 square meters and includes 13 palaces and five mosques, most notably At-Turaif Mosque. The district also contains several public facilities that reflect the administrative and social life of the period, such as Bait Al-Mal, which served as the state treasury, Sbalat Modhi, one of the oldest endowments of the Saudi ruling family, in addition to At-Turaif Guest Palace, regarded as one of the district's symbols of luxury and sophistication.