TEHRAN -- Iran-based
Golestan Complex in the heart and historic core of Tehran has been showcasing a selection of rare manuscripts of the Holy Qur’an which have been calligraphed and illuminated centuries ago.
The exhibit, which is underway till May 05, 2022, is held annually during the holy month of Ramadan known as “the spring of the Qur’an” in Islamic countries.
Among the highlights of the exhibition are the scroll-shaped manuscripts, written in Jali Naskh Script, that are attributed to the Timurid ruler Bisonghor Mirza.
It is difficult to determine the exact date of these manuscripts because ancient copies from this period exist only in fragments which provide the only available evidence for the early development of the written recording of the Qur’an text.
However, experts say the earliest Qur’an manuscripts were produced in the mid-to-late 7th century CE.
The UNESCO-inscribed Golestan complex is one of the oldest in the Iranian capital, originally built during the Safavid dynasty.
The complex consists of eight key palace structures mostly used as museums. It is a destination for domestic and international travelers.
“The complex exemplifies architectural and artistic achievements of the Qajar era including the introduction of European motifs and styles into Persian arts,” writes UNESCO official website.