Culture of Kuwait City. Places to visit - old town, temples, theaters, museums and palaces

Kuwait City is a picturesque place with many monuments, museums and colorful markets, which also have become major tourist attractions. An important tourist landmark is the Kuwait National Museum, which is famous for the collection of objects of Islamic art and priceless archaeological finds. Those, who want to become better acquainted with works of local artists and sculptors, would like the Museum of Islamic Art. The collection of antique furniture and exquisite interior is represented in the Tareg Rajab private museum.

Among the ancient monuments the Al-Khalifa, the construction of which took place in the early 18th century, points out. This beautiful religious building was built keeping best national traditions. Over the years of its existence it has been hit hard, but the surviving building look very impressive. The Great Mosque is the unique construction and the brightest monument of modern architecture. It was completed in 1986. The area's unique complex is about 50,000 square meters. The minaret is 74 meters height. The mosque is free to take a few thousand people; the unique massive construction is supported by only four pillars.

Some older religious objects, such as the mosque of Ibn al-Hammes and Matabba, have also preserved in Kuwait. Both of them were founded in the 18th century. Today they don’t cease to amaze curious travelers with their impressive appearance. Returning to the subject of modern monuments, it is worth mentioning Kuwaiti towers. Beautiful skyscrapers were built in 1979; the height of the largest tower is 187 meters. Tops of skyscrapers are equipped with excellent viewing platforms that are among most popular attractions for tourists. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Excursion to Old Seif Palace will provide an unforgettable experience. It is the most important monument of the late 19th century. Indescribable atmosphere of luxury reigns in palace; its design is fine in every detail and it is entirely consistent with appearance that took place a hundred years ago. Tourists should definitely see surviving fortifications of the city, Shamiyya, Maskab, Baraisi and Jahra gateways. Several centuries ago, Kuwait was a powerful fortress city, in 1957 the surrounding walls were completely destroyed, but gates have managed to preserve to the present day.

Besides mosques, the capital of Kuwait has several Christian churches. First of all, it's worth highlighting the National Evangelical Church known for its spacious interior. Perhaps it is because of this that many representatives from other countries gather here, this is one of the most multicultural places in town, just like the capital of Kuwait is. Another outstanding religious monument is the Holy Family Cathedral Parish, the construction of which coincided with the year when Kuwait gained independence, which happened in 1961. Inside one can find a scaled-down replica of the statue of Our Lady of Arabia, which is a priceless artifact for Christians.

Get acquainted with the colonial period in the life of Kuwait in Dickson House Cultural Center, on the ground floor of which are rooms where the interior of that time has remained virtually untouched. The cultural center is named after Harold Dickson who was a colonel during the period of a British protectorate in Kuwait. In addition to the interior, there are interesting archives and photographs, as well as models of residential areas of the city as they were in the colonial era. All the exhibits date back to the late 19th century and the 60s of the 20th century when Kuwait gained its independence. Of great interest to travelers is another museum - namely, the Amricani Cultural Center. Formerly its building served as an American hospital - that's how Americans helped the local people at the beginning of the 20th century. Besides, it keeps a collection of pearls and ancient artifacts, which will surely impress any visitor.

In Al Qurain Martyrs Museum, one can learn more about the history of Kuwait - in particular, about the tragic events of the 2003 invasion of Iraq. The museum itself is a house that was abandoned immediately after the intervention. Thus, visitors will be able to get a clear picture of what was happening here at that time. For locals, this is a real reminder of rough times and challenges, which they have coped with thanks to their unbreakable spirit and concerted efforts. Kuwaiti Maritime Museum tells about Kuwait as a maritime country, technology buffs will be amazed by a great collection of ship models. Well, those who are fond of vintage cars (like many emirs of Kuwait whose cars are also included in the collection) will appreciate the exhibits presented in the Historical, Vintage & Classic Car Museum.

A unique of its kind is the Mirror House where visitors can see priceless works of art literally at every step - that is, under their feet. The entire floor and walls are lined with magnificent mosaics, the museum looks more like a palace in which a sultan could live. All tourists are recommended to follow the city's cultural events. Most of the best theatrical performances take place in the Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Cultural Center. To find peace of mind and aesthetic enjoyment, it's worth exploring Bayan Botanical Garden, a green oasis in the desert, which is especially beautiful in the summer and striking with its wonderful aromas in the springtime.