A hidden gem nestled within the ancient Erbil Citadel, the Gemstone and Fossils Museum, is a treasure trove that captivates both scientists and tourists alike. This unique museum, the first of its kind in Iraq and the Kurdistan Region, boasts a remarkable collection of over 700 rare pieces, sourced from diverse corners of the globe, including Latin America, Russia, and Asia. From fossils of extinct marine creatures to exquisite gemstones, each exhibit tells a story of ancient geological eras.
But here's where it gets controversial... the museum's founder, Sarbast Majid Omar, has an extraordinary tale to tell. Omar's journey began with a childhood passion for collecting stones, which evolved into a scientific pursuit during his university days at the Department of Geology, University of Mosul. Over four decades, he amassed this rare collection, primarily through purchases and gifts, transforming his personal hobby into a national treasure.
Omar's vision for the museum extends beyond the traditional historical or archaeological value of stones and fossils. He emphasizes their scientific significance, a perspective that sets this museum apart. However, the road to establishing this museum was not without challenges. Omar faced financial hurdles in acquiring the pieces, especially during his university years. The greatest obstacle, though, was finding a secure location to house his growing collection, a challenge ultimately overcome by the ancient Erbil Citadel.
The museum's pride and joy includes a two-billion-year-old piece of the Blasite meteorite, fossils of Trilobites dating back 600 million years, and the Peshmerga Agate, a unique find from the war against ISIS, named after the distinctive color of the Peshmerga forces' uniform.
The sustainability of the museum is ensured through entrance fees, which cover staff expenses and fund the addition of more rare pieces. Omar highlights the durability of hard stones and fossils, which are relatively unaffected by climatic conditions, making long-term preservation more manageable.
A visit to this museum leaves a lasting impression. Visitors like Moaz al-Din Salah and Yamam Sami have expressed their admiration for the diverse and valuable exhibits, calling for more attention to be given to this hidden gem to elevate it to global standards. Salah, in particular, was captivated by the spiritual and aesthetic appeal of gemstones, describing the museum as a beautiful initiative. Sami, on the other hand, was drawn to the rare and large-sized stones, especially the meteorite and rhodamines.
And this is the part most people miss... the museum's collection is not just a scientific marvel; it's an educational tool, offering a unique insight into the world of earth sciences. It's a place where adults and children alike can explore the wonders of our planet's history.
So, what do you think? Is this museum a hidden gem worth exploring? Or do you have a different perspective on its significance? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
