Sunday, September 20, 2026
Culture

Holy Quran Museum in Makkah displays 18th-century manuscript

Holy Quran Museum in Makkah displays 18th-century manuscript

The Hira Cultural District in Makkah houses a Holy Quran manuscript dating back to the 18th century. The item is displayed at the Holy Quran Museum.

According to SPA, the manuscript was written in black ink and combines characteristics of several Islamic calligraphic schools. It features precise diacritical marks and vowel notation, while the opening pages are adorned with floral motifs and intricate ornamentation.

The exhibit allows visitors to view the history of handwritten Qurans and the evolution of Arabic calligraphy. It also showcases the gilding and decorative techniques used in the production of Quranic manuscripts across different historical periods.

Where is the 18th-century Quranic manuscript located? The manuscript is housed at the Holy Quran Museum, which is situated within the Hira Cultural District in Makkah. This specific piece dates back to the 18th century and serves as an example of the beauty and precision found in Islamic calligraphy and ornamentation from that period.

What are the physical and artistic characteristics of the manuscript? The manuscript was written using black ink and incorporates features from multiple Islamic calligraphic schools. It is characterized by precise vowel notation and diacritical marks, while its opening pages are decorated with intricate ornamentation and floral motifs.

What can visitors learn from viewing this manuscript? Visitors gain insight into the history of handwritten Qurans and the evolution of Arabic calligraphy. Additionally, the manuscript demonstrates the specific gilding and decorative techniques that were employed during the production of Quranic manuscripts across various historical periods.