The historic Lahore Museum is poised for a significant upgrade, with an $8 million restoration project that aims to restore the iconic institution to its 1929 form. The project, guided by UNESCO’s master plan, will modernize the museum while preserving its cultural and historical integrity. A digitalization study has already been completed as part of the five-year initiative, which seeks to align the museum with national and local heritage standards.
Established in 1894 on Mall Road, the Lahore Museum is one of South Asia’s largest cultural repositories. It boasts nearly 60,000 artifacts from the Gandhara, Mughal, Sikh, and British eras, including rare sculptures, ancient coins, exquisite woodwork, and paintings. These pieces represent a rich cross-section of South Asian history, culture, and heritage, making the museum a symbol of national pride.
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Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has instructed the provincial cabinet to approve the plan, with Senior Punjab Minister Maryam Aurangzeb emphasizing its significance. She stated that the museum will be upgraded to international standards, turning it into a modern cultural hub for both local and international tourists. The project is expected to not only preserve history but also contribute to economic growth through increased tourism.
Key components of the upgradation plan include waterproofing the museum’s roof, improving drainage, enhancing the internal environment, upgrading electrical systems, and ensuring modern fire safety and security measures. The restoration will also introduce new museography, updated gallery designs, and advanced display systems to better showcase the museum’s collection according to its historical and cultural significance.
The Lahore Museum will remain closed to visitors during the renovation, and its vast collection of artifacts will be temporarily relocated. Technical assistance for the project will be provided by the Aga Khan Cultural Service Pakistan and international experts, with a focus on preserving the museum’s architectural and historical value.
Former Punjab Archaeology Director Afzal Khan praised the project, noting its potential to modernize the museum with cutting-edge technologies. He emphasized that the improvements will enrich the visitor experience and increase interest in the museum, ultimately boosting tourism and ensuring the preservation of heritage for future generations.
