Kuwait’s ‘Weapons Museum’ and ‘Red Palace’: Symbolizes nation’s glorious history and memorable heritage

• Minister Al-Mutairi: The Red Palace and Weapons Museum, is an integral part of Kuwait’s national memory and cultural and civilizational heritage.

• Jahra Governor, Al-Habshi: Today’s celebration is a reminder to generations of the importance of preserving and cherishing Kuwait’s national heritage

The Minister of Information and Culture, Minister of State for Youth Affairs and President of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Literature, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, highlighted the Red Palace’s significance as an essential part of Kuwait’s cultural and civilizational heritage.

Minister Al-Mutairi, while speaking at the opening ceremony for the restoration of the historic Red Palace, and the inauguration of the Weapons Museum in Jahra, emphasized the value of heritage as a culmination of the experiences of past generations. He highlighted how their struggles serve as inspiration and fuel to drive forward the nation’s progress and continued development.

Regarding Kuwait’s history and heritage, Al-Mutairi emphasized that historical sites are more than mere structures; they are living representations of a nation’s culture and civilization. These sites reflect human interaction with time and space, embodying values and aspirations.

Al-Mutairi described them as vibrant memories that convey cultural messages, stressing the importance of preserving and sharing them with care and honesty. He affirmed that building a promising future requires attention to civilizational heritage and human history.

Whereas about the Red Palace, Al-Mutairi stated that restoring the Red Palace in the Jahra area plays a vital role in preserving Kuwait’s rich heritage. Built in 1896 by order of H. E. Sheikh Mubarak Al-Sabah, the palace stands as a symbol of resilience and history, reflecting the patriotic spirit and bravery of the Kuwaiti people in defending their homeland.

Moreover, Al-Mutairi noted that Kuwait’s rich historical heritage, which spans numerous eras, receives great attention and care from His Highness the Amir Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad; His Highness the Crown Prince Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid, and His Highness the Prime Minister Sheikh Ahmed Al-Abdullah. He emphasized this heritage as a message of unity among peoples and a means of fostering cultural connection and dialogue.

Furthermore, Al-Mutairi stated that the Ministry is delighted to announce the opening of the Arms Museum alongside the Red Palace Museum. As these museums showcase unique artifacts that highlight key aspects of the palace’s history, established by H. E. Sheikh Mubarak Al-Kabeer as a military garrison and weapons depot in the late 19th century.

Al-Mutairi expressed gratitude to the contributors of the archaeological artifacts, thanking them for supporting the Weapons Museum by sharing their collections. He noted that these contributions enrich the museum with valuable insights into Kuwait’s glorious history.

What’s more is that Al-Mutairi also extended his gratitude to The Governor of Jahra, H. E. Hamad Al Habshi; the team at the Governorate; the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters; and everyone involved in completing this significant project, praising their efforts in accomplishing this distinguished historical work.

Al-Mutairi categorically added that ‘May God Almighty guide us in preserving our history and heritage and to make the Red Palace a window through which future generations can witness Kuwait’s civilization and its rich history’.

In turn, Governor Al-Habshi stated that the celebration of this historic landmark is ‘a celebration of Kuwait’s proud heritage and a reminder to future generations of the importance of preserving and cherishing our national heritage’.

Al-Habshi praised the efforts of the Ministry of Information and the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Literature in supporting cultural and heritage activities, emphasizing their role in strengthening national identity.

For his part, Nassar Al-Khafaan, President and Secretary of the Diwaniyat of the Nabat Poets, expressed his gratitude and appreciation to those responsible for the Red Palace. He commended their great efforts in revitalizing the site, turning it into a beacon that radiates love for the homeland and its heritage. He emphasized that their dedication serves as an example for all who work towards the elevation of Kuwait and the preservation of its ancient history.

Al-Khafaan added that the Diwaniyat of the Nabat Poets continues to fulfill its national and cultural duty by actively participating in all national forums, celebrations, and festivals that promote and strengthen Kuwait’s identity and preserve its authentic heritage.

The ceremony featured a short film about Jahra Governorate, highlighting its significance, along with a poetic performance by poet Dhari Al-Buqan, celebrating Kuwait and its rulers.

Additionally, a kinetic performance painting titled ‘Al-Mahroub’ was presented, showcasing popular and traditional themes through the participation of various artistic and fictional teams.

A number of participants were honored during the ceremony, including Dr. Abdullah Al-Ghanim, Mohammed Al-Faheed, Nassar Al-Khafan, Amer Al-Husseinan, Fahd Al-Abd Al-Jalil, Daoud Al-Dabbas, Meshal Mitab Al-Saeed, Meshaal Othman Al-Saeed, Hani Al-Asssi, Nawaf Al-Asf Al-Asfour, Saadoun Al-Swaraj, Abdullatif Al-Nakas, Saleh Al-Masab, and Dr. Sarah Al-Dhabib, in recognition of their significant contributions.

After the ceremony, Minister Al-Mutairi, accompanied by the audience, toured the palace’s facilities. During the tour, they reviewed the palace’s important historical contents and listened to a detailed description of its history and significance.

Source: Al Rai