Arar House Museum: Living tribute to Jordan's national poet

Jordan Times

05-05-2025

IRBID — Nestled in the heart of Irbid lies a powerful monument to one of Jordan's most celebrated literary figures, Mustafa Wahbi Al Tal, widely known by his pen name, Arar. Today, his family home has been transformed into the Arar House Museum, preserving his legacy as both a poet and patriot.
The museum honours not only Arar's poetry but also his deep connection to Irbid. The house itself, which dates back to the British Mandate era, once belonged to Arar's family and was the place where he spent his childhood and early adult years.
Built in the Damascene architectural style, the home carries the spirit of the past, complete with a century-old mulberry tree that still shades its courtyard.
Arar (1899–1949), also known as 'The Poet of Jordan', was a pioneering literary figure whose poetry not only shaped modern Arabic verse but also reflected his deep commitment to Arab nationalist causes — foremost among them the Palestinian cause — and his solidarity with the poor and marginalised.
He also worked as a teacher, lawyer, and administrative governor during his lifetime.
Speaking with The Jordan Times, Director of Irbid's Culture Directorate Sultan Zghoul, said: 'Mustafa Wahbi Al Tal was chosen as the Arab Cultural Icon of 2022 by the Arab League Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organisation [ALECSO], a well-deserved honour that reflects his regional influence and poetic legacy.'
According to Zghoul, the museum hosts a collection of historical photographs and personal belongings of Arar — including his study desk and rare images with King Abdullah I, the founder monarch of Jordan.
'In 1989, Arar's remains were relocated into the house, and it was transformed into a museum. Since then, it has received hundreds of visitors annually, becoming a unique cultural destination in northern Jordan,' he added.
'The museum attracts a wide spectrum of visitors — from students and families to intellectuals and ambassadors,' said Zghoul.
'We have also developed a long-term plan to host and receive a variety of cultural events here — including poetry evenings, heritage exhibitions, visual art shows, lectures, art workshops, and heritage festivals.'
The director noted that the house is frequently visited by Arab poets and writers, who see it as a 'living tribute' to a man who helped shape Jordan's literary consciousness.
Among the visitors was Bdour Sami, who described the museum as a 'cultural treasure.'
'I love this place — it is perfect for children and for anyone who appreciates poetry and culture. It is an important symbol of Irbid,' she said.
Though modest in size, Arar House is rich in meaning — a space that offers more than historical insight; it continues to celebrate Jordan's cultural identity. As Zghoul put it: 'This is not just a museum. It is a living space for culture.'