Sharjah

Sharjah’s old buildings – a testament to emirate’s rich history

Sharjah, the cultural heart of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is more than just museums and art centers. Its buildings, according to Sultan Al Qassemi, are a testament to the emirate’s rich history and its welcoming spirit.

Al Qassemi, a renowned arts patron and founder of the Barjeel Arts Foundation, spoke at the Thessaloniki Book Fair where Sharjah was the guest of honor. He discussed a special book, “Building Sharjah,” that explores the emirate’s architectural journey through stunning visuals and personal stories.

Sharjah’s strategic location made it a hub for trade long before the UAE’s formation. This, according to Al Qassemi, fostered a multicultural spirit that continues to define the emirate.

“Sharjah is like a miniature world, a global city even before globalization became a big word,” he said. “For centuries, it has welcomed people from all over.”

From the first airport on the coast to early educational institutions, Sharjah’s architectural landscape reflects its pioneering spirit.

“Building Sharjah” takes readers on a visual tour with over 600 images, showcasing iconic landmarks like the Sharjah Post Office and the Central Souq, alongside hidden gems. But the book delves deeper than just aesthetics.

“A forgotten building with a Chinese restaurant attached tells a story,” Al Qassemi explained. “It shows that Sharjah had a Chinese community here over 70 years ago!”

The book’s creation took nearly a decade, unearthing unseen photos and collecting memories from those who knew these buildings best. One such example is the “Flying Saucer,” a unique Brutalist structure that transformed from a 1970s shopping center to a vibrant arts and events space today.

Sharjah’s architecture also dispels myths about the emirate’s environment. “It’s not just a desert,” Al Qassemi clarified. “We have beautiful oasis, mountains, and of course, desert areas.”

This variety is reflected in the construction methods used. “Traditionally, we built coastal structures with coral and clay, while mountain areas used stone,” Al Qassemi said. “Sharjah’s strong trade with India also brought in a lot of teak wood.”

The Al Mahatta Museum, a former airport, exemplifies this blend of materials. “This building has everything – clay, coral, cement, aluminum, and glass,” Al Qassemi said. “It might be the first in the UAE, or even the Gulf, to combine them all.”

For Al Qassemi, architecture is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a reflection of the people who built and live in Sharjah.

“These buildings tell human stories,” he said. “They show the character of the city, the people who call it home, and how it has embraced its citizens and migrants for generations.” From low-cost housing to grand landmarks, Sharjah’s architectural tapestry whispers tales of a welcoming and dynamic emirate.

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