Gujarat’s global recognition and prestige have been enhanced as Bhuj’s Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum has been recognized as one of the world’s seven most beautiful museums by the prestigious Prix Versailles Award for Architecture and Design, given annually by UNESCO. According to the Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum is one of them. Patel announced on X that the Smritivan Earthquake Memorial Museum in Bhuj has made Gujarat and India proud by being recognized as one of the top 7 stunning museums globally in the prestigious Prix Versailles Award. This award, presented annually at UNESCO, celebrates excellence in architecture and design. He added that it is a source of pride for Gujarat that an Indian museum has been globally recognized for the first time for showcasing local culture and promoting the conservation of nature.
What is the Smritivan Earthquake Museum?
Located on Bhujio Hill and covering 470 acres, Smritivan is home to the largest Miyawaki forest in the world, boasting 500,000 trees. The area serves as a memorial to the 12,932 individuals who lost their lives in the earthquake, with their names inscribed on plaques scattered throughout 50 check dams. The museum complex boasts various attractions, such as a meticulously restored fort that dates back 300 years, a cutting-edge solar power plant, vast tree plantations, and a spacious museum building covering 11,500 square meters. Visitors can gain a deeper understanding of earthquakes as natural disasters through interactive exhibits and a special theater that recreates the experience of the 2001 quake. The museum showcases seven different sections representing the journey from tragedy to recovery – Rebirth, Rediscover, Restore, Rebuild, Rethink, Relive, and Renew. It stands as a testament to human strength, preserving memories and offering hope in remembrance of the tragic earthquake in Gujarat that took many lives.
What is the Prix Versailles Award
The prestigious Prix Versailles Awards, established in 2015, are presented annually at UNESCO headquarters to recognize outstanding architectural and design projects from around the world. This year, a museum category was added, and Smritivan was honored to be in the company of esteemed institutions such as the A4 Art Museum in Chengdu, China; Simose Art Museum in Hiroshima, Japan; Grand Egyptian Museum in Giza, Egypt; Paleis Het Loo in Apeldoorn, Netherlands; Oman Across Ages Museum in Manah, Oman; and the Polish History Museum in Warsaw, Poland.
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Earthquake of 2001
The earthquake, which occurred on January 26, 2001, near Bhuj, is a dark moment in India’s history. With a magnitude of 7.7, the earthquake resulted in approximately 13,000 deaths and over 167,000 injuries, causing widespread destruction of homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods in the area. The response to the disaster involved a large-scale humanitarian effort, with both national and international aid being provided for rescue and relief operations. The aftermath of the earthquake spurred extensive reconstruction efforts and initiatives to enhance disaster preparedness and recovery strategies in the affected regions.
FAQs
How to Reach Smritivan Earthquake Museum?
The museum is located in Bhuj, Gujarat. The nearest airport is Bhuj Airport, about 10 km away. The nearest railway station is Bhuj Railway Station, around 15 km from the museum.
What are the Visiting Hours and Ticket Prices?
The museum is open from 10 AM to 6 PM, Tuesday to Sunday. Ticket prices range from free for young children to ₹1000 for foreigners.
Are There Facilities for Special Needs Visitors?
Yes, the museum has ramps, elevators, and a golf-cart service to accommodate specially abled visitors and seniors. Wheelchairs are also provided.
Are There Accommodation and Dining Options Available?
Yes, there are various accommodation options in Bhuj. The museum has a multi-cuisine restaurant and cafes offering refreshments and snacks.
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