Monuments in Sharjah
Martyrs' Monument
Situated within the grounds of University City in Sharjah, the Martyrs’ Monument stands tall, commissioned by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. This monument serves as an enduring tribute to the unwavering dedication and sacrifices made by the nation’s heroes in their pursuit of honor, resilience, and devotion for the security of their homeland. Encompassing an area of 706 square meters at its base and weighing approximately one and a half tons, this architectural marvel is distinctively designed with ten ascending levels. Engraved on its walls is a Quranic verse that captures the essence and revered status of the martyrs: “And never think of those who have been killed in the cause of Allah as dead. Rather, they are alive with their Lord, receiving provision.”
Sharjah World Book Capital Monument
Sharjah was named World Book Capital for the year 2019 by UNESCO, upon which this monument was built to celebrate and commemorate this milestone. A contemporary architectural structure in the shape of an old Arab scroll, the monument is over 35 meters tall. Sharjah earned the title owing to its efforts in supporting writers and publishers from around the world. The honor was also an appreciation for the achievements of the Sharjah International Book Fair, which launched its debut edition in 1982. Over three decades later, it is now a global event.
Sharjah Arab Cultural Capital Monument
Sharjah was named Arab Cultural Capital by UNESCO in 1998 in recognition of its continuous efforts to establish the importance of culture, reading, intellect, and human enlightenment. To celebrate the achievement, Sharjah Arab Cultural Capital Monument was constructed. Built in a distinctive architectural design, the monument reflects authentic Arab culture and the Emirate of Sharjah’s civilization and modern character. At 32 meters tall, the monument is made of a concrete structure and is located in the University City area in Sharjah, within the perimeters of the Islamic World Garden and near the Islamic Culture Capital Monument.
Sharjah Islamic Culture Capital Monument
UNESCO named the Emirate of Sharjah as the Islamic Culture Capital in 2014 in recognition of Sharjah’s role in establishing the Arab-Islamic cultural identity and enhancing the cultural landscape. Sharjah dedicated its efforts to reviving Islamic culture, focusing on contemporary Islamic architecture for its government buildings, constructing beautiful mosques, creating knowledge and culture hubs, and setting up traditional markets, launching Islamic arts festivals, and organizing specialized Islamic arts book fairs. Located within Sharjah University City in the garden facing the main entrance, the monument is 42 meters tall. It is made of green granite and carries 28 verses of the Quran revering science and advocating knowledge seeking.
Resistance Monument in Khorfakkan
The resistance monument pays tribute to the epic sacrifices and heroic acts of the people of the city during the Portuguese invasion in 1507. It celebrates the history of the people of Khorfakkan in defending their homeland against the Portuguese aggressors. The monument includes a hall showcasing historical items that date back to the 14th century and were used by the Khorfakkani. The Resistance Monument tells the epically heroic story of the locals and their sacrifices to defend their city, building towers on hills and mountaintops and forts alongside the coast. Located at the entrance of Khorfakkan, the Resistance Monument sits on a mountaintop that overlooks Khorfakkan Square and offers a panoramic view of the city, making it the perfect place to envision and reflect on the city’s great past.