‘Layers of Time, Kuwaiti-Polish archaeological research in Northern Kuwait and on Failaka Island’
Among the most notable discoveries presented include a Chalcolithic-era settlement; evidence of Bronze Age and Islamic-period nomadic groups in Kuwait’s mainland; insights into pre-modern life on Failaka Island and the discovery of the remains of an ancient mosque at a late Islamic excavation site on Failaka.
The Embassy of the Republic of Poland in Kuwait, in collaboration with the Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology at the University of Warsaw (PCMA UW), organized a special exhibition highlighting decades of Polish archaeological research in Kuwait.
The event was held in partnership with the National Council for Culture, Arts, and Letters (NCCAL), which serves as the principal host for the ongoing research activities carried out by Polish missions in the country.
A key highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the prestigious Bene Merito honorary distinction to renowned Polish archaeologist Dr. Agnieszka Pieńkowska.
The award, bestowed by the Polish Minister of Foreign Affairs, recognizes individuals who have made exceptional contributions to enhancing Poland’s standing and influence on the international stage.
Dr. Pieńkowska currently leads the Failaka Archaeological Research Project, a role she has held since 2013, and serves as Deputy Head of the As-Sabbiya Archaeological Project—a position she has occupied since 2009. Her long-standing work has been instrumental in deepening scientific understanding of Kuwait’s ancient cultural heritage.
The exhibition’s opening featured welcoming remarks by Professor Piotr Bieliński, Director of the Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology at the University of Warsaw and Head of the Polish archaeological mission in Kuwait. He was joined by Dr. Mohamed Al-Jassar, Secretary-General of NCCAL, who reaffirmed Kuwait’s commitment to supporting international archaeological collaboration.
His Excellency Michał Cholewa, Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to the State of Kuwait, also addressed attendees, emphasizing the strength of Polish–Kuwaiti cultural cooperation and the shared dedication to preserving historical heritage.
The event celebrated not only the achievements of Polish researchers but also the enduring partnership between Kuwait and Poland in the field of archaeology and cultural preservation.
“Layers of Time: Kuwaiti-Polish Archaeological Research in Northern Kuwait and on Failaka Island” is a photographic exhibition that brings to life the rich results of nearly two decades of joint archaeological work undertaken by the Kuwaiti-Polish Archaeological Mission.
Established in 2007, the mission is a collaborative effort between Kuwait’s National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters (NCCAL) and the Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology at the University of Warsaw (PCMA UW).
The exhibition explores the distinctive archaeological landscapes of northern Kuwait and Failaka Island—areas that for thousands of years served as meeting points for long-distance trade, maritime activity, and diverse cultural traditions.
Through detailed photographic documentation, the display reflects how these regions once formed dynamic crossroads linking Mesopotamia with wider networks across the ancient world.
Based on extensive fieldwork conducted by the joint mission, the exhibition showcases a spectrum of significant discoveries. These include a Chalcolithic settlement, evidence of Bronze Age and Islamic-period mobile communities on the mainland, and well-preserved remains illustrating pre-modern life on Failaka Island.
Together, these findings provide a nuanced understanding of human settlement and activity in what is now Kuwait, revealing patterns of daily craftsmanship, architectural evolution, and interactions that extended far beyond the region’s shores.
The exhibition ultimately offers visitors a layered narrative of Kuwait’s past—one shaped by movement, exchange, and enduring cultural connections.
