THE TREASURES OF ANCIENT SYRIA - DISCOVERY OF THE KINGDOM OF QATNA

Current Exhibition in the Altes Schloss in Stuttgart, Germany

"17th October 2009 – 14th March 2010 in the Württemberg State Museum, Old Castle, Stuttgart

More than 3500 years ago, the Syrian Kingdom of Qatna, which had grown rich through trade, was one of the most prosperous metropoles of the ancient Orient. Around 1340 BC, a withering attack by the Hittites led to the destruction of Qatna. In 2002 came the archaeological sensation: an international team of researchers discovered beneath the King’s palace in Qatna a royal burial chamber that had remained undisturbed by grave robbers.

The treasures recovered are being exhibited in Europe for the first time in the Württemberg State Museum. Under the patronage of Günther H. Oettinger, Minister President of Baden-Württemberg, and Ing. Mohammad Naji Ottri, Minister President of the Syrian Arab Republic, the Kingdom of Qatna can be rediscovered in the Altes Schloss in Stuttgart. The presentation of exhibits will be supported by modern media and reconstructions."