Lanao del Sur - An Enriching Tour at the Aga Khan Museum of Islamic Arts

It is my privilege to personally witness how rich Maranao and the Muslim culture in general is, by visiting the Aga Khan Museum of Islamic Arts. Originally opened in 1962, it is located inside Mindanao State University Main Campus in the Islamic City of Marawi. It was named in honor of His Royal Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan IV who greatly contributed to the realization of the museum.

Welcome...
The museum serves as a repository of Maranao and other Moro ethnographical artifacts. It showcases the great and grand culture of the ancient Maranaos, a muslim tribe who lives around Lake Lanao. It also houses a huge collection of indigenous and cultural Islamic materials, native tools and weapons, replicas of the “torogan" (Muslim houses), preserved cadavers of some animal species, dresses, costumes and ethnic musical instruments used by our Muslims brothers and sisters, an antique copy of the Qur'an and many more.

replicas of the Torogan
Alotang - Maranao Bamboo Xylophone
Torogan houses
I was at awe when I saw how artistic the Maranaos are; as showcased by the collection in the museum. I was totally impressed with their creativity. The intricate “okir” (carving) and colorful “nagas” (serpent figures) are amazing works or art!

boat...
Paira-an - a wooden tobacco container
kulintang
A painting of the Battle of Marawi
Battle of Marawi
preserved cadavers of some animal species
I highly recommend that you visit this museum and be acquainted with the rich culture of our Muslim brothers and sisters.

costumes and dresses
an ancient copy of the holy Qur'an
Maranao bed and dining set
Aga Khan Museum of Islamic Arts
Mindanao State University – Main Campus
Islamic City of Marawi, Lanao del Sur
9:00am – 11:30 AM, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Monday to Friday

HOW TO GET THERE
From Ozamiz City. Go to Ozamiz Port and take a ferry going to Mukas Port (20 minutes). From there, take a bus bound for Cagayan de Oro City and get off at Southbound Terminal (1.5 hours) in Iligan City then take an MSU bound jeepney (1 hour).

From Cagayan de Oro City. Go to Bulua-Westbound Bus Terminal, take a bus going to Iligan City and get off at Southbound Terminal (1.5 hours) then take an MSU bound jeepney (1 hour). Alternatively, you can take a shuttle van from the terminal that ply the CDO-Marawi City route.

This is a part of my trip to the cities of Marawi, Iligan and Ozamiz last September 16-18, 2011. Marawi City in Lanao del Sur is the 37th province on my list and a part my 10th solo trip. Discover the places I've been to, new friendships I've made and the experiences I gained in this quick visit to the Islamic City of Marawi.
Map By: Wikipedia	Enroute to the Islamic City of Marawi Strolling Around Mindanao State University, Marawi City An Enriching Tour at the Aga Khan Museum of Islamic Arts Visiting King Faisal Mosque Marawi, Iligan and Ozamiz City - How To Get There, Accommodations, Transportation, Expenses, Itinerary and Contact Details