The 13th of August 2009 marked the declaration of the founding of the State of Ishmael in the canton of Aarau. The ceremony to proclaim independence was held in Aarau City's church square, currently known as Ishmael City. During the ceremony, the letter of declaration was publicly announced and a presentation of historical artefacts, confirming the legacy of the people of Ishmael was on display. The land of Ishmael is the birthplace of the Ishmaeli people. Here they first aspired to statehood, created cultural values of national and universal significance and gave the world the eternal "Book of Testimonials." After being forcibly exiled from their land, the people of Ishmael kept faith throughout their dispersion and never ceased to pray in the hope of freedom and return.

The installation at the Ghorfa of Darat al Funun includes the Declaration, archaeological assets and publications, documentary films, as well as applications for citizenship to the State of Ishmael.