ABU DHABI: A project for the conservation, restoration and development of Qasr Al Hosn, the symbolic birthplace of Abu Dhabi and home to the ruling Al Nahyan family, has been launched by Abu Dhabi Tourism & Culture Authority (TCA).
The master plan features the renovation of the historic monument, extensive development of both buildings of the National Consultative Council and the Cultural Foundation, and the surrounding areas.
It is a one-year conservation project, beginning in March.
”Qasr Al Hosn will be completely renovated and conserved to preserve it rich historic value and transform it into a tourism and cultural destination at the heart of the capital Abu Dhabi,” said Mohammed Khalifa Al Mubarak, TCA Chairman.
The newly renovated historic site will welcome visitors in 2018, he added.
“We are honoured to be embarking on this monumental journey, the start of a year-long programme of activities that aim to preserve, restore and rehabilitate Qasr Al Hosn while preparing visitors for an opening in 2018,” he added.
The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi also visited the Qasr Al Hosn exhibition, which tells the story of rule under the Al Nahyan family, dating back to the 18th century.
History
Qasr Al Hosn was constructed in 1760 as a watchtower to defend the only freshwater well on the Abu Dhabi island. As the first solitary stone building, Qasr Al Hosn saw the early evolution and progress of Abu Dhabi, said Wam.
The tower was later expanded and took its present shape after a major extension into the palace. Following renovation work in the 1970s and 1980s, it was turned into a museum displaying archaeological collections, artefacts and pictures representing the history of Abu Dhabi and the Arabian Gulf area.
This permanent exhibition at the Qasr Al Hosn Centre tells the story of Abu Dhabi and its people through the city’s oldest building.
Open Exhibition
The exhibition will open to the public as of Wednesday, 8th March.There’s also a public programme of talks and workshops.
- Angel Chan