“A building inspired by a tomb,” the guide chuckled, gesturing towards the Brunei Museum. “It seems a tad ironic, doesn’t it?” The Brunei Museum, despite its name, wasn’t always about the past. It stood as a testament to Brunei’s vibrant history and cultural identity. Founded in 1965, the museum found its home in Kota Batu, a journey from the bustling heart of Bandar Seri Begawan. Its grand opening in 1972 by Queen Elizabeth II marked its place on the world stage. The Brunei Museum’s design, inspired by the tomb of Sultan Bolkiah, a 15th-century ruler, was a tribute to the nation’s rich heritage. Inside, the museum housed a captivating blend of Islamic art, Southeast Asian history, and artifacts that spoke of Brunei’s journey through time. It held treasures like 9th and 10th-century pottery from distant lands like Iran and Central Asia, delicate glasswork from Egypt and the Levant, and even a miniature Quran manuscript. The echoes of Brunei’s powerful sultanate resonated through the displays of gold ornaments, ceremonial cannons, and weaponry, a testament to a glorious past. Though closed for renovations since 2014, the Brunei Museum’s legacy lived on, a symbol of Brunei’s commitment to preserving its heritage. The anticipation for its reopening mirrored the excitement of rediscovering a national treasure, a treasure trove of stories waiting to be told.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to