The King Abdulaziz Public Library in Riyadh has launched an exhibition showcasing historical documents and artifacts related to the Hajj and the Two Holy Mosques. The exhibition explores the importance of Makkah and Madinah, as well as the key sites of the Hajj pilgrimage, and features rare books, manuscripts, photos, coins, and miniatures from the library’s extensive archives. The exhibition aims to give an insight into Arab and Islamic heritage and present the cultural significance of the Hajj.
The King Abdulaziz Public Library is home to a collection of 8,100 rare photographs taken by famous photographers from the Arab and Islamic worlds since 1740. Some photographs date back to 115 years and document renowned travelers who visited the Kingdom before and after its foundation. Furthermore, the library boasts rare manuscripts from 1505 written by Egyptian Imam Al-Suyuti, which extol the sanctity of the holy cities.
To further enrich the experience of the pilgrims during the Hajj season, the General President for the Affairs of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque, Sheikh Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, inaugurated 20 field and digital exhibitions. Some of these exhibitions will be held inside the Grand Mosque, while others will be mobile touring the holy sites in Makkah and Jeddah. The exhibitions aim to provide visitors and pilgrims with an opportunity to learn about the history and development of the Two Holy Mosques.
The exhibition at the King Abdulaziz Public Library will be open for a month, showcasing the beauty and cultural significance of the Hajj and the Two Holy Mosques. The library’s rare archives are a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Islamic world and the importance of preserving it for future generations.
