Room 53
Ancient South Arabia
Visiting the gallery
Opening times
Daily: 10.00–17.00 (Fridays: 20.30)
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Advance booking advised
Gallery audio guides
Listen on the Audio app, available on the App Store and Google Play.
Ancient South Arabia was centred on what is now modern Yemen but included parts of Saudi Arabia and southern Oman.
Ancient South Arabia was famous in the ancient world as an important source of valuable incense and perfume, and was described by classical writers as 'Arabia Felix' (Fortunate Arabia) because of its fertility.
Several important kingdoms flourished there at different times between 1000 BC and the rise of Islam in the sixth century AD. The oldest and most important of these was Saba, which is referred to as Sheba in the Bible.
Room 53 contains a rotating display of recently identified examples of endangered cultural heritage. Careful study and analysis undertaken at the Museum enable such objects to be returned to their country of origin.
Accessibility
- Some objects in this collection feature on the British Sign Language multimedia guide. This resource is temporarily unavailable. You can access a selection of BSL films on your own device.
- Some objects in this collection feature on the audio description guide, available on Soundcloud.
- Seating is available.
- Step-free access.
- View sensory map.
Visit Accessibility at the Museum for more information.
