Benacian Museum of Antiquities

View of the entrance to the museum.

Nestled amidst the bustling streets of Chryse, the capital city of the Benacian Union, stands a monumental testament to the past – the Benacian Museum of Antiquities. Established in the year 1723 AN, this grand institution serves as a storehouse of history, a repository of the collective memory of an entire continent, and a reflection of the diverse cultures and civilisations that have flourished across the ages.

Portrait of Guendolen Avon-El, inaugural director of the museum.

Under the watchful eye of its inaugural director, Guendolen Avon-El, widow of the former Szodan of Benacia, Jeremiah Avon-El, the museum boasts a collection that stretches across the annals of time. The museum's very presence is a tribute to the intricate tapestry of civilisations that have risen and fallen on the continent of Benacia, leaving behind artifacts, relics, and stories awaiting discovery and incorporation into the museum's curated collections.

View of the Khaz Modan Hall.

As one steps into the museum's hallowed halls, a sense of reverence permeates the air. The meticulously curated exhibits showcase the treasures of the past – ornate sculptures, ancient manuscripts, opulent jewelry, and artifacts that tell tales of forgotten kingdoms and fabled lands. From the awe-inspiring remnants of the mystical Khaz Modani civilization to the exquisite craftsmanship of the golden age of the Cedrist faith, the museum offers a glimpse into the intricate history of cultures that once thrived across the continent of Benacia.

The Benacian Museum of Antiquities is more than a mere repository of objects; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of discovery and preservation. The dedication to meticulous conservation and careful restoration ensures that these treasures are not lost to the sands of time. Every artifact, every relic, is a bridge that connects the past to the present, allowing visitors to step into the shoes of those who walked the surface of Micras centuries ago.

The museum's halls are not just spaces for reflection, but also arenas for learning and exploration. Educational programmes, interactive exhibits, and curated tours provide visitors with an immersive experience, unraveling the stories behind each artifact. The museum serves as a haven for scholars, researchers, and history enthusiasts alike, fostering a deep appreciation for the diverse cultural heritage that has shaped the continent.

Amidst the splendor of its collections, the Benacian Museum of Antiquities is a poignant reminder of the value of cultural preservation and the necessity of understanding our shared history. It stands as a beacon of enlightenment, inviting visitors to embark on a journey through time, to uncover the mysteries of civilisations long past and to reflect on the inevitability of the ascendancy of the Human Supremacy over Micras.

Administration

As a keeper of antiquities, the Benacian Museum of Antiquities is subordinated to the Custodian of the Sacred Regalia and the Commission for the Sacred Treasury, thereby coming under the jurisdiction of the High Presidium of the Benacian Union.

The site of the museum is however solely owned by the High Commission of Chryse, with an agreed rent fixed at ten percent of the museum's yearly revenue. In return for this munificence, the High Commissioner, Ayesha al-Osman, graciously consented to serve as the museum's patroness.

Affiliations

In spite of being outside of its formal control, the museum nonetheless sought to establish strong relations with the Benacian Academy and its long established Chamber of Antiquities.

The museum also developed a strategic partnership with the Chrysean Academy of Fine Arts, focused upon collaboration in the research and study of the Benacian cultural context of artefacts and the development of sensitive conservation methods.