The Extraordinary Machines of Jazari Claimed

More than an Exhibition Creating a credible atmosphere for medieval Anatolia and providing an appropriate background for the exhibits would be a challenging process even for an experienced crew; special structures, technical effects and visual aids were painstakingly developed to make the exhibition goers understand and sense something of the conditions of the Middle Ages. Some of the components used to create such a unique atmosphere include: • An internal wall facade of the Artuqid Palace. • Replicas of frescos used in the Seljuq Palace of Rey, Iran • Models of servants and musicians dressed in period clothes. • Historically themed posters explore the possible uses the machines were put to in their original setting. • Animated videos show the working principles of water-raising machines in agriculture fields and palaces. • The atelier has a waxwork of Al-Jazari and the instruments he would have used. • A four-meter model of the Artuqid palace door in Diyarbakir made by Al-Jazari. Comprehensive Digital Support From the start of the exhibition to its very last exhibit, visitors will engage with film, laser projections, and various screen presentations. With many of the machines having internal mechanisms, digital boards can be used to see and understand how these machines work. In addition, there is a holographic show of a drink dispenser in the form of an ox to entertain people. Projections help both children and adults alike understand water scarcity, and how, in his time, Al-Jazari’s water-raising system revolutionized people’s lives and agriculture. These Machines Work! Throughout the 20th century, numerous exhibitions have presented historical machinery from different civilisations. However, this exhibition is the only one that contains machines from that period which actually work. All of the machines, from Archimedes screw through the elephant water clock to the steam-engine - including the servant robots of Al-Jazari - can be operated. More Interaction, More Entertainment Visitors, especially children, can experience a unique journey through the interactive mechanisms and machines. The exhibits facilitate the learning processes and principles of mechanics, aiming to trigger curiosity and stimulate the imagination. There are more than fifty objects to actively interact with. Short Movie A short movie produced using powerful CGI technology and complemented by a very original soundtrack serves to arouse the curiosity of the audience, making them dive into the epic march of humanity. The familiar, deep timbre of the voice of the well-known Turkish actor, Haluk Bilginer magnifies the effect.