Museum of Vision

The eye is a recurring symbol in many cultures and religions. They have been found in the remains of ancient civilizations all over the world, although it is not clear in all cases if eyes were thought to be magical or had religious significance.

In 1937, Professor M.E.L. Mallowan uncovered the remains of a temple in ancient Mesopotamia (modern day Syria) at Tell Brak in the Khabur Valley.  Dating to roughly 3000 BC, the Eye Temple of Brak held thousands of small idols made of alabaster that resembled figures with huge eyes and no other facial features. It has been speculated that these artifacts represent offerings to the gods.