[Exhibition] “Happy Arabia?”Antikenmuseum, Basel, Switzerland (18 Jan. - 2 July. 2017)

Exploring the legendary cultural heritage of ancient Yemen.

From 18 January to 2 July 2017, the exhibition “Happy Arabia? Myth and Reality in the Land of the Queen of Sheba” is held at Antikenmuseum Basel, displaying precious Yemeni heritage in ancient times.

From the 8th century BC to the 6th century AD, South Arabia (Yemen today) is said to have been the homeland of Queen of Sheba. According to Greek and Latin writers, this wealthy region was also known as “Happy Arabia”.

Far from the myth, this term was based on reality. Historically, South Arabia was a key trade agent that linked East Africa, India and the Mediterranean region. Through ancient South Arabian caravan routes, spices, textiles, gems and other luxury products were transported between the East and the West.  

This exhibition explores the richness of history and culture of Yemen, which is under constant threat by ongoing civil war. It extends the global conversation between museums, at the heart of the Yemeni Heritage Week (2016), when 10 leading museums around the world united to raise public awareness on the important values of Yemeni cultural heritage.

More information about the Happy Arabia? Exhibition on the museum’s website, as well as their Facebook page. Program available in German and French.

More about the Yemeni Heritage Week in collaboration with #Unite4Heritage: https://metmuseum.atavist.com/yemeni-heritage-week