Thanks to the ancient astronomer, mathematician, and geographer Claudius Ptolemy, since AD 150, the area of the Qatar Peninsula has appeared on the maps of the world. The ancient country was called “Katara,” like the modern cultural village, created with the assistance of the former Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, in 2010. The goal of making the first cultural village in the Middle East was to draw attention to the rich culture of the ancient country, share its history with others, and show its art.

The unique cultural complex is a small area just a few minutes from the center of the capital of Qatar, Doha. The scenic old streets house theaters, concert halls, galleries and exhibitions, shops, and restaurants. Each of them was built in a different style, from traditional Arabic to modern European. The entire complex looks like a single, well-balanced space. Dive in the atmosphere of the East: study the masters of traditional crafts, get acquainted with the works of the best contemporary artists of Qatar at the Art Center, enjoy the enchanting sounds of music performed by the Philharmonic Orchestra at the Opera House, or watch a film on the steps of a huge amphitheater. Everyone will find something to their liking in this great country with a thousand-year history.

The Katara cultural village even has its oriental bazaar with local pearl and jewelry merchants, gift and coffee shops. All the village restaurants serve traditional meals of the national cuisine: take a bite because the rich palette of tastes of Qatar cuisine is legendary. Besides, there are two mosques in Katara. The most beautiful religious building in Doha, the Blue Mosque, is decorated with turquoise and purple mosaics. The most petite gold plates adorn the Golden Masjid Mosque. The splendor of the architectural landmarks is emphasized by the beauty of the landscaped gardens, whose bright colors mirror the ancient country’s culture.

The grand opening of the Katara cultural village in 2010 was timed to coincide with the beginning of the annual Doha Tribeca Film Festival. In 2018, there was opened a department store of the oldest French Galeries Lafayette within the premises of the village. Annually, the traditional festival of Arab dhow sailing ships is held on the village beach. Many famous Arab boats from Yemen, Oman, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates participate. During the festival, you can go on a boat trip on one of the racing boats.