Overview

Alhamra Arts Council, with its vibrant red-brick façade, in Lahore stands tall as a shining symbol of Pakistan's cultural prowess. The name, derived from the Arabic word for "a woman in red clothes," pays homage to the stunning architecture of the Royal enclave in Cordoba, Spain. As one of the most iconic cultural complexes in the country, Alhamra continues to be a beacon of Pakistani heritage and artistic expression.

The Alhamra, a hub for arts and culture, was brought to life by the renowned architect, Mr. Nayyar Ali Dada. Mr. Dada envisioned a complex that would be a shining example of excellent architecture and a celebration of Pakistan's vibrant cultural landscape. The red-brick buildings symbolize artistic excellence and are a beacon for artists, musicians, writers, and other cultural dignitaries worldwide. Alhamra has been honored with the prestigious Aga Khan International Award for its outstanding architecture.

We invite you to join us at Alhamra and experience the magic of this iconic cultural center for yourself. Come and be inspired by the beauty of the buildings, the richness of the cultural offerings, and the warmth of the people who make Alhamra the heart of Lahore

History

Alhamra, the iconic cultural complex in Lahore, holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Pakistan as it embodies the essence of the country's rich cultural heritage. It is the successor of the Pakistan Arts Council, founded on 10 of December 1949. The modern complex owes its existence to the efforts and interests of the former Governor of Punjab, General Ghulam Jillani Khan. Over the years, it has undergone several developments, including the construction of an open-air theatre, two small auditoriums, and an art museum at the Alhamra Cultural Complex, Gaddafi Stadium.

During the past decades, Alhamra has emerged as the hub of all cultural activities in Lahore, reviving dying arts and adding international dimensions. Its location on the bank of the river Ravi, in the historical city of Lahore, has made it a citadel of glorious traditions that have evolved over centuries of inter-communal, multi-ethnic interactions. The people of Lahore carry forward their traditions with characteristic cultural vivacity and religious fervour, which are not on a collision course with modernism.

The cultural richness of Punjab, the province in which Lahore is located, is unparalleled. Its folklore is full of legends and love tales, and its soil has produced folk dances and music of memorable melody and rhythm representing different aspects of life. Its Sufis and Saints have enlightened the hearts and souls of people, teaching them to stand for peace and equality of all men, regardless of caste, color, and creed. Lahore, the capital of Punjab, is the city of fairs, festivals, refreshing gardens, and historical monuments like the Badshahi Mosque, the Lahore Fort, and the Shalimar Gardens.