Yemen: Closure of two archaeological museums in Sanaa sparks public discontent

Arab Sea Newspaper - Follow-ups

Arabian Sea - Yemen - Follow-ups: The General Authority for Antiquities and Museums in Sana'a announced the closure of both the National Museum and the Museum of Popular Heritage, a move that sparked discontent among citizens and intellectuals. According to the Authority, the closure came as a result of its inability to pay the necessary operating expenses, including employee salaries and electricity bills. In a statement, the Authority expressed its apology to citizens and museum visitors, stressing that the closure decision was beyond its control, and that it is making efforts to address the financial problems and resume opening the museums to the public as soon as possible. The closure of these historical and national landmarks comes at a time when archaeological sites in Sana'a are witnessing increasing neglect by the authorities, as local sources reported the collapse of two archaeological houses in the Old City - listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List - due to heavy rains that fell last Saturday, which led to the displacement of four families who were living in one of the collapsed houses. The Haraz area, west of Sana'a, also witnessed the collapse of another historical building a few days ago due to the same factors, which highlights a systemic crisis that threatens the entire Yemeni heritage.