JEDDAH: The Red Sea Museum in Saudi Arabia’s Jeddah displayed historic manuscripts of the Holy Quran linking the Red Sea to maritime Hajj pilgrimages across the centuries.
The displayed copies of the Holy Quran date back to various historical periods, including 17th-century Chinese manuscripts, 19th-century Kashmiri texts, and a small Ottoman Quran copy, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Friday.
The museum also displays a rare collection of Islamic books, historical manuscripts, and maps that once accompanied pilgrims on their sea voyages to Makkah.
Other key exhibits include diverse religious artifacts, works on the Prophet’s biography, and poems of praise.
Each piece is decorated with gold artistic calligraphy and exquisite binding, showcasing the high level of precision achieved in the historical art of copying Quranic manuscripts.
The Red Sea Museum stands as a prominent testament to the historic relationship linking the Red Sea to maritime Hajj pilgrimages across the centuries.
Among the pavilion’s highlights is a rare manuscript dating back to 1506 CE, featuring depictions of the Two Holy Mosques. Regarded as one of the most significant historical works on Hajj, the manuscript offers a unique glimpse into the pilgrimage’s rich past.
The pavilion also showcases the centuries-long preservation of the Holy Quran, tracing the evolution of Quranic calligraphy, illumination, and bookbinding. Together, these exhibits provide visitors with a rich cultural and historical experience.
Through its collection, the pavilion chronicles the spiritual and human journey of millions of pilgrims, preserving the legacy of faith, devotion, and one of the world’s most enduring pilgrimage traditions.
