Historic Jeddah’s Red Sea Museum Showcases Rare Manuscripts from Ancient Hajj Sea Voyages

The Red Sea Museum in Historic Jeddah stands as a prominent testament to the historic relationship linking the Red Sea to maritime Hajj pilgrimages across the centuries. Through a specialized pavilion, the museum displays a rare collection of illuminated copies of the Holy Quran, Islamic books, historical manuscripts, and maps that once accompanied pilgrims on their sea voyages to Makkah.

 The pavilion features illuminated copies of the Holy Quran dating back to various historical periods, including 17th-century Chinese manuscripts, 19th-century Kashmiri texts, and a small Ottoman Quran copy. Each piece is distinguished by intricate gold decorations, artistic calligraphy, and exquisite binding, showcasing the high level of precision achieved in the historical art of copying Quranic manuscripts.

 Other key exhibits include diverse religious artifacts, works on the Prophet’s biography, and poems of praise. A standout feature is a landmark manuscript from 1506 CE documenting scenes from the Two Holy Mosques, which remains one of the most prominent historical works detailing Hajj.

 By highlighting the historical care given to the Holy Quran, including the evolution of calligraphy, ornamentation, and bookbinding, the pavilion offers a deeply enriched cultural experience for visitors. It documents the spiritual and human journey of millions of pilgrims, serving as an enduring record of faith and heritage along one of the world's most significant historical routes.