Riyadh hosts a fascinating historical Hajj exhibit
Among the highlights of the Great Pilgrimage 2023, which is fast approaching, the fascinating historical exhibition hosted for a month by the prestigious public library of King Abdulaziz, in Riyadh, promises to be the high point of its cultural events. .
This unprecedented exhibition, which is the pride of the Saudi authorities, showcases a large number of documents and artefacts related to the Hajj and the two holy mosques, while highlighting the importance of the holy cities of Mecca and Medina. , as well as major pilgrimage sites including the Kaaba, Mina and Mount Arafat.
As they stroll through an exhibition designed as a journey of discovery, and dedicated to the essential aspects of the culture of Hajj in the Arab and Islamic heritage, the many pilgrims will have plenty of time to contemplate precious manuscripts and rare books, old view, coins and miniatures promoting the rituals of Hajj and Umrah, most of which come from the library funds.
The library of King Abdulaziz indeed conceals treasures of archives, composed of 8100 striking photographs, which were taken by famous photographers of the Eastern, Arab and Islamic world, since 1740. They include those of Major General Mohammed Sadiq Pasha and the Indian pilgrim Ahmed Mirza, 115 years old.
Other shots document various scenes captured by the Egyptian Hajj Mission in 1936. The library also contains priceless manuscripts dating back to 1505, written by Egyptian Imam Al-Suyuti, praising the sanctity of the two holy cities.
The highlight of a series of 20 exhibitions, some of which are digital, this enriching exhibition on the Hajj was recently inaugurated by the General President for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais.
