Amazing Afghanistan was known as the crossroads between Asian and Europe. People traveled through Afghanistan bringing with them materials, designs, techniques and beliefs from other parts of the world. The National Museum in Kabul once housed artifacts from far away cultures such as Chinese, Greek, Roman, Indian, and Egyptian. All the splendour and treasures from the Silk Road passed through this city and in time found their way to the museum. The history and artifacts it held were truly astounding. But unfortunately when the Taliban took over the government in Afghanistan these priceless treasures were thought to be destroyed and lost forever.
But amazingly in the brand new Afghanistan after the Taliban, some incredible discoveries were made. In 1989 some very brave Museum staff risked their lives and hid the treasures away. Thought to be lost forever, these treasures were kept secret for 15 years. When the Taliban fell, these treasures could be revealed and come out into the light of day again. These brave people protected history for future generations to enjoy and marvel at. These incredible things provide facts and evidence about the ancient peoples that lived thousands of years ago.
At the Queensland Museum at the moment is a real treat for history buffs, treasure lovers and families alike.Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures from the National Museum, Kabul is a once in a lifetime chance to see some of these priceless treasures from long ago.
We took our four children to the exhibition to see this wonderful piece of history. I wasn’t sure how they would all go and if they would enjoy it. But thanks to a few activities planned by the staff, the kids had a ball. My 10 and 9 years old probably more so, but the boys had fun too. I would recommend it for families.
When we went in the kids were given a crown to wear. Now this cardboard version is a copy of an incredible crown that you can see inside the exhibition. The Tillya Tepe crown was once worn by a princess. It is designed to be taken apart and folded flat to be packed while traveling. It is so ornate and just amazing to see. My two girls wore their crowns all afternoon, even on the train home. Very cute!
The kids were also given a Treasure Map and a pencil. On their travels around the exhibition they could mark off on their Hidden Treasures brochure when they found certain items and artifacts. It also had other activities. It kept them interested and occupied the whole time.The treasures were amazingly beautiful. Just walking around looking at this snapshot from the past is incredible. There are over 230 priceless items on display. Dating from between 2200 BC and AD 200. The extraordinary beauty of this collection rivals the tombs of Egypt.The motto of the National Museum of Afghanistan is “A nation stays alive when its culture stays alive”.Melanie
