Over the last seven years and more, Syria has undergone one of the worst human tragedies in living memory. This once proud and splendid country with its fabled cities of Damascus and Aleppo has been largely destroyed and great parts of its population have fled in one of the major refugee-migrations of recent history.

Syria’s fate concerns everyone, but especially its neighbours in the Middle East. It is for this reason the Museum of Islamic Art in Doha presents “Syria Matters” to highlight the extraordinary cultural heritage of this country, and at the same time plead to safeguard this unique legacy in danger.

“Syria Matters” will explore five periods of Syria’s history, illuminating its key role in the artistic and intellectual history of the world. It is a journey through time and space featuring immersive and innovative digital renderings of key sites by the French company ICONEM and showcasing over 120 objects including some of MIA’s greatest collection highlights such as the famous Cavour vase as well as significant national and international loans from Istanbul, St. Petersburg, Berlin, London and Paris. Visitors will leave with a deep understanding and connection to Syria and an appreciation of how the continuing destruction affects us all.