Rediscovering the “Pre-Islamic Era”: a harmony of history, technology, and imagination

🔴 Scientific foundation and cultural heritage in the study of the Pre-Islamic Era

🔴 Experiencing history vividly through an interactive exhibition

A scientific-practical discussion session was held at the Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan, focusing on the enhancement of the “Pre-Islamic Era” section of the exhibition. The meeting was attended by the Center’s researchers, historians, archaeologists, museologists, designers from Turkey’s “Outdoor Factory” company, and other international partners.

The main theme of the discussion was enriching the exhibition with deeper scientific content, authentically reflecting the historical spirit, and modernizing the exhibition environment through the integration of interactive and immersive approaches based on advanced technologies.

Key proposals and ideas were put forward in the following areas:

➖ Providing a scientifically grounded narrative of the historical stages from the Paleolithic period up to the advent of Islam;

➖ Showcasing petroglyphs, legends and myths, traces of Zoroastrianism, ancient lifestyles, and the cultural exchanges shaped by the Great Silk Road;

➖ Creating a historically immersive environment through the concept of an “immersive room” that invites visitors on a journey through time;

➖ Developing a rich and meaningful visual exhibition through archaeological artifacts including coins, textiles, seals, figurines, and other tangible heritage items.

During the meeting, the company “Outdoor Factory” presented its immersive room project dedicated to the Pre-Islamic Era. The presentation incorporated previously expressed feedback and recommendations, introducing new design solutions, spatial configurations, lighting technologies, and sensory features.

The Director of the Center of Islamic Civilization, Firdavs Abdukhalikov, emphasized the high standards required for this section and shared the following thoughts:

“The Pre-Islamic Era section must not be merely a space for presenting historical facts; it should be a spiritual realm where every visitor can truly feel the past and understand the ancient way of life and worldview. Civilizational representations such as Sogdiana and Bactria, along with regional features in the Chach pavilion — all of this must be presented with scientific integrity and visual sophistication. Every detail must tell a story”.

At the conclusion of the meeting, a constructive exchange of ideas took place among historians, designers, and experts from the Center. All participants emphasized the importance of ensuring a harmonious integration of historical accuracy, aesthetic expression, and modern technology in the creation of the exhibition.