A fragment of the Kiswah and rare Qur’ans: how is the Center of Islamic Civilization presenting itself to the world?

🔴 The new face of Uzbekistan

🔴 Sacred historical artifacts

The Center of Islamic Civilization in Uzbekistan today serves as a leading institution for safeguarding our nation’s spiritual heritage, advancing scientific research, and presenting it to the wider public. Through new exhibitions, the Center not only showcases valuable artifacts of the Islamic world but also creates unique opportunities for the scholarly study of history and culture.

Among the exhibits expected to be displayed in the Center’s museum are sacred Qur’an manuscripts, Islamic written monuments, and a fragment of the Holy Kiswah of the Kaaba, gifted by Saudi Arabia. These treasures will embody Uzbekistan’s cultural and spiritual strength on the global stage.

A symbol of deep respect

One of the most significant elements of the exhibition is the fragment of the Kiswah covering the Kaaba’s door, presented as a gift by Saudi Arabia. This sacred cloth will now be permanently preserved at the Center and is planned to be installed in the Qur’an Hall facing the qibla. It will be safeguarded under a special protection system and treated annually with chemical preservation to maintain its original condition.

As emphasized by Professor Emek Uşenmez of Istanbul University, this gift holds not only material but also profound spiritual meaning, serving as a symbol of the high respect shown by the Arab world to Uzbekistan.

“114 Qur’ans” – a unique scientific project

One of the Center’s most ambitious academic initiatives is the “114 Qur’ans” project. Within its framework, the world’s oldest and rarest Qur’an manuscripts preserved across various countries are being scientifically studied, with facsimile editions prepared and presented to the public.

“This project is significant not only scientifically but also spiritually. One of its main goals is to study the historical importance of the sacred manuscripts and to highlight their place in art and calligraphy. At the same time, special albums are being prepared in Arabic, Uzbek, and English”, said Professor Emek Uşenmez of Istanbul University.

The exhibition will include the Mushaf of Uthman, monumental Qur’ans from the Timurid era, the Qur’an of Uzbek Khan, as well as Qur’ans copied during the reign of Husayn Bayqara, the Baysunghur Qur’an, and their facsimile editions and scholarly publications, continuing within the project.

A bridge of scholarship and cultural diplomacy

The Center also places great emphasis on international cooperation. Partnerships with Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Russia, England, Egypt, and other countries are strengthening not only academic research but also cultural diplomacy. Among its key partners is the Institute of Oriental Manuscripts in St. Petersburg.

In the future, the Center plans to host virtual exhibitions, present new artifacts, and develop even more innovative displays.

New opportunities for spiritual life and tourism

The Center of Islamic Civilization is a place that instills respect for historical heritage in the minds of youth while promoting national pride and spiritual values. At the same time, it expands opportunities for religious tourism and international cooperation in the cultural sphere.

In conclusion, the Center of Islamic Civilization stands not only as a scientific institution but also as a modern symbol of Uzbekistan’s cultural diplomacy and spiritual strength.