Zia memorial Museum

One of the most remembered war heroes and politicians in the history of Bangladesh is Lieutenant General Ziaur Rahman. Born on 19 January 1936, Zia went on to establish the Bangladesh Nationalist Party and became the President of Bangladesh on 21 April 1977. Tragedy struck the country when Ziaur Rahman was assassinated in 1981. In honor of this revered man, the Zia Memorial Museum was established to keep his memory and contributions to Bangladesh alive. The Zia Memorial Museum is more than just a journey through the life of the late President Rahman, it is also a significant architectural piece of history.

The building that now houses the Zia Memorial Museum was previously known as the Old Circuit House. It was constructed on a hill in the city of Chittagong in the year 1913, and is a wonderful building that boasts unique South East Asian features. Used as a palatial structure as living quarters for government officials, the building was later renovated into a museum, opening its doors in 1993. Visitors to the museum will find a wide variety of memorabilia and art that totals over seven hundred exhibits.

Zia Memorial Museum consists of twelve galleries, of which all of them are dedicated to the memory of President Ziaur Rahman. Items found in these galleries include portraits of the president, the actual microphone and transmitter over which the president delivered his Declaration of Independence speech, the table and chair from where he ruled the country, personal effects, documents, souvenirs and gifts he received during his reign from diplomats and officials. In the last gallery visitors will be able to view a reconstruction of his untimely death. The museum has also been fitted with a breathtaking library and a conference room that is equipped with the latest technology for use in presentations and meetings. As the president was murdered in this building, the museum has become an extraordinary monument to his life. Visitors will find the museum to be a spectacular attraction in Chittagong, which not only retraces the life of this unforgettable leader, but the colorful history of Bangladesh.