UMM AL QAIWAIN, The ancient Christian monastery on the island of Siniya, whose discovery was revealed last week, is “a living example of the various religious and multicultural societies that have settled on the island over the past centuries,” according to Sheikh Majid bin Saud bin Rashid Al Mualla, chairman of the emirate’s Tourism and Archaeology Department.
He was speaking after visiting the site with Monsignor Yoannis Lahzi Gaid, Chairman of the Human Fraternity Foundation, and Monsignor Crispin Dobell, Chargé d’Affaires of the Vatican State Embassy in the UAE
Welcoming the visit, Sheikh Majid said, “The UAE is a home of various historical heritage sites that reflect cultural and religious diversity. The monastery on the island is a living example of the various religious and multicultural societies that have settled on the island over the past centuries.”
The visitors, accompanied by Sheikh Majid, inspected the site and listened to a presentation from the Department’s team about the historical significance of the site.
It is the second Christian monastery found in the UAE and dates back to the period between the sixth and eighth centuries AD.
The site includes, besides the church, a community complex, a refectory and cisterns along with cells for the monks.
This historical site is one of the top priorities of the plans of the Department of Tourism and Archaeology to preserve the ancient history of Siniya Island and protect the local heritage of the emirate of Umm Al Qaiwain.
The Department seeks to introduce present and future generations to their country’s heritage, which is a fundamental component of the national identity.
Source: Emirates News Agency