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The exhibition Patrimony in Peril at the Museum of Art and History MAH in Geneva showcases an array of artifacts from the Gaza Strip. These include amphoras, figurines, vases, oil lamps and moscs that provide a glimpse into Gaza's rich history from the Byzantine period onwards.
Curator Beatrice Blandin describes these objects as a part of Gaza's soul, highlighting their importance in representing the identity and heritage of its people. However, since 2007, they have remned in a secure warehouse in Geneva due to geopolitical reasons that prevented them from returning home.
The exhibition emphasizes the responsibility of museums like MAH in safeguarding cultural property during times of conflict. This is particularly significant considering that the deliberate destruction of such heritage can be classified as a war crime.
The artifacts on display include pieces from Syria, Sudan, and Libya alongside those from Gaza, all of which serve to underline the global nature of this issue. Each object tells its own story of civilization's past and the challenges it has faced over time.
Since the start of Israel's offensive in Gaza last year following an attack by Hamas, many cultural sites have been damaged or destroyed, as documented by UNESCO. The patrimonial value of these artifacts from the Palestinian territory held in Geneva could not be more evident given this context.
The exhibition is also a reminder that museums like MAH can act as safe havens for such treasures during conflicts and wars. Like it did with Ukrnian works of art last year, the museum has been able to offer refuge to cultural collections under threat from aggression and destruction.
These artifacts were originally destined to form part of an archaeological museum in Gaza but have since remned stationary due to various reasons that have prevented their return to their rightful home. Now safeguarded by Geneva city councilor Alfonso Gomez's foresight, these objects serve as a testament to the resilience of culture amidst turmoil and conflict.
In , this exhibition not only provides an opportunity for viewers to appreciate the beauty and history encapsulated in each artifact but also underscores the importance of protecting such heritage from damage and destruction. It serves as a powerful reminder that the preservation of cultural property is essential to mntn our collective memory and identity.
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Gaza Strip Historical Artifacts Exhibition Patrimony in Peril Museum of Art and History Geopolitical Reasons Preventing Artifact Return Byzantine Period Cultural Property Highlighted Museums Role in Safeguarding Cultural Heritage Conflicts Impact on Palestinian Archaeological Sites