Since the dawn of history, Palestine stood among great empires as a crossroads of culture and civilizations. This richness coincided with challenges of identity moulded by the ambitions and greed of the Great Powers towards this geographically strategic land.

The year 2017 marks 100 years since the 1917 Balfour Declaration, 70 years since the 1947 UN resolution for the Partition of Palestine, and 50 years since the 1967 Arab-Israeli war. Within this context, Darat al Funun-The Khalid Shoman Foundation dedicates its 2017 exhibition and events program to showcasing the continuity of Palestinian history and cultural heritage throughout the ages under the title “Falastin al Hadara”. Beginning with the ancient history of Palestine, a year-long program has been organised that includes in-depth talks on archaeology and architecture, early printed press and radio, Palestinian poets and writers, photography, and history of music and popular culture before 1948. Pioneering Palestinian artists from the early 20th century are exhibited side by side with contemporary artists. Storytelling, theatre, film screenings and music will bring to life the untold story of Palestine.

Image: Tabula Rogeriana, al-Idrisi map of Cyprus and the Levant, 12th Century.