Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has toured Turin during a visit to the Italian city. Sheikh Sultan was shown around Italy's captivating National Cinema Museum, which through screens, paintings and pictures chronicles the early beginnings of Italian cinema. He also watched clips of films that document the techniques used in the early days of filmmaking. The museum, located in the Mole Antonelliana, a major landmark in Turin, is home to technical photographical and film editing equipment from decades ago. State news agency Wam said he spoke of how crucial cinema is in documenting cultures and civilisations and at preserving history. Sheikh Sultan later received an honourary doctorate from the University of Turin, one of the oldest seats of learning in Europe, and a top engineering school, the Polytechnic University of Turin. The award was in recognition of his contribution to urban and regional development, and commitment to integrating architecture with sustainable technology. "It is an honour for me to attend this ceremony held in the magnificent Castle of Valentino among many distinguished academics and guests," he said, remarking on the two universities' impact on science and technology. "I want to express my sincere appreciation to the University of Turin and the Polytechnic University of Turin, their faculties and committees who nominated and bestowed me with this honorary degree. "This is a special day for me." The Italian city is known for its architecture, art galleries and fine cuisine, its stunning mountainous backdrop and its top-flight football teams - Juventus and Torino.
