gujarat-museum-nominated-for-unesco-award

The Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum in Bhuj has been shortlisted for UNESCO’s prestigious Prix Versailles Award. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel sharedGujarat museum nominated for UNESCO award

 

"A moment of pride for Gujarat and India! The Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum in Bhuj has been listed among the seven most beautiful museums in the world under the prestigious Prix Versailles Award, which is announced annually at UNESCO for architecture and design," Patel announced on X, formerly known as Twitter.

 

The recognition marks a milestone for Gujarat, as it is the first time an Indian museum has gained such international acclaim for its reflection of local culture and dedication to nature conservation.

'

The Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum was conceived under the vision of then-Gujarat Chief Minister and current Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The museum serves as a tribute to the victims of the devastating 2001 earthquake and celebrates the resilience of the Kutch region.

 

"Smritivan was constructed in Bhuj based on that vision. The museum, situated amidst thousands of trees on Bhujia Hill, features a remarkable design. It tells a saga of courageously facing challenges and rebuilding from them. This museum offers a transcendental experience of the supreme element," Patel added.

 

UNESCO’s Prix Versailles, in its release, highlighted the museum's inclusion in the World’s Most Beautiful Museums List for 2024. This list features seven newly opened or reopened museums that excel in creativity, local heritage reflection, and ecological efficiency. The museums compete for three 2024 World Titles – Prix Versailles, Interior, and Exterior – with winners to be announced at UNESCO Headquarters by late November.

 

Jérôme Gouadain, Secretary General of the Prix Versailles, expressed delight over the recognition of museum buildings. "Museums provide singular settings conducive to intercultural dialogue. Bolstered by technology, they now deliver ever more immersive experiences, participate in the dissemination of knowledge, and help form the tastes of their visitors," Gouadain stated.

 

By creating the World’s Most Beautiful Museums List, the Prix Versailles aims to highlight the importance of wonder, which elevates the human gaze and allows for surprise. "Because of what they are, and what they are intended to be, museums fully contribute to the goals of intelligent sustainable development,” Gouadain added.

 

Announced annually since 2015 at UNESCO, the Prix Versailles series of architectural competitions celebrates the finest contemporary projects worldwide. The Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum’s inclusion in this esteemed list underscores its architectural and cultural significance on a global scale.