The Museum of Islamic Art, Doha

I visited the Museum of Islamic Art during my trip to Doha. This museum boasts one of the largest collections of Islamic Art in the entire world. Islamic art, especially found in mosques, is characterized by floral designs, geometric patterns, and calligraphy from the Quran. The first two features do not hold any symbolism or significance, but rather came out of Islamic rulers' desire to have a unique identity in art. The secular art pieces depict people and animals, and much of the ancient Islamic art is shown on everyday objects and items, including astronomical tools and other scientific equipment.

The museum building itself was designed by I.M. Pei, who also designed the Lourve in France. He designed it using Shamisen stone from France, which is one of the only materials that would be able to withstand the heat and salty water of Doha. The museum is located on its own private island, with a single road connecting it to the main city of Doha.