Afghanistan exhibition extended by an extra month

GATINEAU, QC, March 15 /CNW Telbec/ - Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures, described by visitors as 'amazing', 'magnificent' and 'exceptional', is being held over due to popular demand. The public now have until April 25 to enjoy the acclaimed international exhibition originally slated to close on March 28 at the Canadian Museum of Civilization.

The Museum of Civilization is the exclusive Canadian venue for this exhibition organized in collaboration with the National Geographic Society. It is the last chance for most Canadians to see the exquisite collection of gold and other precious antiquities from Central Asia.

"Nearly 60,000 visitors have seen Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures since it arrived in the National Capital, and interest is actually growing," said Victor Rabinovitch, President and CEO of the Canadian Museum of Civilization Corporation. "Thanks to the government of Afghanistan, we were able to make arrangements to extend the exhibition by four weeks. Now, even more Canadians will benefit from this unique opportunity to explore the marvels and mysteries of Afghanistan's ancient past."

"Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures is much more than an exhibition of beautiful artifacts," said His Excellency Jawed Ludin, Afghanistan's Ambassador to Canada. "It is a window into the culture and history of Afghanistan, and a way to build bridges between our country and the rest of the world. The people of Canada have shown tremendous concern and support towards Afghanistan over the past years and I am pleased that, through the exhibition at the Museum of Civilization, they are able to see a truer, deeper image of a country they have supported."

Before coming to Gatineau-Ottawa, Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures captivated audiences in Paris, Turin, Amsterdam, Washington, Houston, San Francisco and New York. Next, it will continue its successful world tour in Germany and Britain. The exhibition will be on display at the Canadian Museum of Civilization until April 25, 2010.

The Canadian Museum of Civilization is the centre for research and public information on the social and human history of the country. Located on the shores of the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec, the Museum is Canada's largest and most popular cultural institution, attracting more than 1.3 million visitors each year. The Museum of Civilization's principal role is to preserve and promote the heritage of Canada for present and future generations, thereby contributing to the promotion and enhancement of Canadian identity.

    
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Afghanistan: Hidden Treasures tells a tale of ancient commerce and conflict along the legendary Silk Road, with a spellbinding sequel. The more than 200 objects on display are among thousands that were feared looted or destroyed during a recent period of violent conflict. Museum visitors will learn how, in 1978, as war and chaos threatened Kabul, a group of Afghans risked their lives to protect the precious contents of the National Museum. They transferred thousands of artifacts to secure hiding places, and kept their secret until the treasure trove could be safely revealed in 2003.

The exhibition was organized in collaboration with the National Geographic Society and the National Gallery of Art, Washington, D.C., in association with the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston; the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York; and the Asian Art Museum of San Francisco.

For further information: (media): Yasmine Mingay, Chief, Media Relations, Tel.: [phone], [email protected]; Stéphanie Verner, Media Relations Officer, Tel.: [phone], [email protected]