Aga Khan Museum of Islamic Arts, Islamic arts museum at Mindanao State University, Marawi, Philippines
The Aga Khan Museum of Islamic Arts is located on the Mindanao State University campus and houses a collection of Islamic art alongside Filipino Muslim artifacts and cultural objects. The displays include miniaturized pagoda mosques, traditional weapons, and other items that reflect the region's heritage.
The museum was founded in 1962 as a single exhibition room and received its current name after Aga Khan IV provided funds for a new building. This expansion in the 1960s allowed for a larger collection to be displayed and preserved.
The museum showcases traditional art forms from Moro and Lumad communities of Mindanao, including musical instruments and handcrafted objects from daily life. Visitors can observe how these cultures maintained their craft techniques and artistic expression over time.
The museum is best reached by taking jeepneys or vans from Iligan City to the MSU campus, then using a tricycle to reach the museum buildings. Visitors should allow extra time to navigate the campus, as the exhibition spaces are spread across the area.
The collection holds over 300 calligraphic sculptures by Abdulmari Imao depicting the name of Allah in different artistic styles. The museum also preserves rare traditional weapons including lantaka cannons and intricately crafted kris swords.
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