Exhibition: Elephantine - Island of the Milennia

A Triumphant Celebration of AGYA’s 10-year anniversary

The opening of the exhibition ‘Elephantine – Island of the Millennia’ was held at the James Simon Gallery on Museumsinsel Berlin on 25 April 2024. As part of the celebrations of the Arab-German Young Academy of Sciences and Humanities’ (AGYA) 10th anniversary, the event attracted over 500 attendees from 30 countries, including more than 60 AGYA members, alumnae and alumni who celebrated a decade of fruitful interdisciplinary research cooperation between the Arab world and Germany.

A Journey Through 4.000 Years of Diverse Cultural Heritage

Curated by Prof. Dr. Verena Lepper, Principal Investigator of AGYA, and her dedicated team in cooperation with the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, the exhibition offers an immersive exploration of the Island of Elephantine, realizing the concept seeing – touching – hearing – smelling. The exhibition brings together an impressive collection of objects from Berlin and museums around the world, including the Louvre in Paris and the Brooklyn Museum in New York. For the first time, visitors can experience a comprehensive and diverse perspective on Elephantine Island's rich historical and cultural heritage through texts.

The exhibition successfully contextualizes the many texts in 10 different languages and scripts covering 4.000 years of history, through archaeological objects as well as contemporary artistic interpretations. Interactive installations allow visitors to engage deeply with the material, providing an exciting journey appealing to most senses through the island's multilingual, multicultural, and multi-religious heritage. The exhibition displays a rich collection of artifacts, ranging from ancient papyri and inscribed pottery sherds to figurines and architectural remnants, each telling the story of the island's vibrant past.

A Landmark Achievement in Arab-German Collaboration

The exhibition ‘Elephantine – Island of the Millennia’ stands as a testament to AGYA's commitment to promoting interdisciplinary research and science diplomacy. It showcases the successful collaboration between the Ägyptisches Museum und Papyrussammlung, Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, the Egyptian Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, and AGYA, highlighting the importance of cultural heritage in bridging communities and strengthening mutual understanding.

An Evening of Distinguished Guests and Captivating Exhibits

Long-standing affiliates of AGYA warmly received the interested audience: Prof. Dr. Hermann Parzinger, President of the Prussian Heritage Foundation and AGYA Advisory Board Member, Dr. Jens Brandenburg, Vice Minister of Education and Research, AGYA alumnus Prof. Dr. Tarek Tawfik, President of the International Association of Egyptologists & Cairo University, Kai Gehring, Chair of the Committee of Education, Research and Technology Assessment of the German Bundestag, and Prof. Dr. Friederike Seyfried, Director of Ägyptisches Museum und Papyrussammlung, each offered their congratulations to AGYA, emphazising the Academy's significant role as a model for successful bi-lateral research cooperation as well as the remarkable achievements of the exhibition and its role in enhancing our understanding of Elephantine Island's rich, multifaceted history.

Fostering Scholarly Exchange and Engaging the Public

The event attracted scholars, researchers and the general public alike, encouraging a lively exchange of ideas and perspectives. Expert presentations offered deeper insights into the historical and cultural significance of Elephantine Island, making the exhibition both an educational and inspiring experience.

The exhibition opening garnered significant media attention. Numerous articles were featured in leading German and Arab newspapers and media outlets, highlighting the exhibition's importance and the collaborative efforts behind it.

Open Until 27 October 2024

The launch of ‘Elephantine – Island of the Millennia’ was an overall memorable and highly successful event featuring high-ranking speakers and guests, and reflecting AGYA's decade-long dedication to fostering collaboration and understanding between the Arab and German scientific communities. A special highlight of the evening was a live music performance from members of the Egyptian rock band Wust El Balad together with Berlin-based artist Ali Hasan. With music composed uniquely for this event, the concert rounded off the event with a memorable and vibrant get-together of members, alumni/ae and esteemed guests.

The exhibition will remain open to the public until 27 October 2024. Visitors are warmly invited to discover the fascinating history of Elephantine island and its diversity which is brought back to life through remarkable objects.