October 16, 2011. (Romereports.com) For the first time, the Vatican is hosting an exhibit on Islamic calligraphy. It's a type of Turkish art called “Hilyer-i Serif and Tesbih.”  The art form focuses on Prophet Muhammad. Everything from his physical features to his generosity, intelligence and wisdom. The shape and style of the calligraphy and the meaning they contain make them true works of art.


Selman Gemuhluoglu
Association of International Art and Culture (Turkey)
“We have collected these pictures from two collections. Some of them are very classic and historic, the rest are contemporary works by contemporary artists.”

This type of art was born in the 17th century during the Ottoman Empire. But the style has been reborn so to speak, as contemporary artists reinterpret the original works.

The exhibit is a way to bring Muslim and Christian cultures close. It includes a rosary and 30 paintings that reflect this connection.

Mehmet Sen Lutfi
Responsible Exhibit (Turkey)
“The cities of Rome and Istanbul are very close. With this exhibit we've built a bridge between the two. This is the most beautiful bridge that can be built between two peoples, two cultures, because it's built in the heart and that no bombs or bullets can destroy it.”

Although currently the exhibit is only shown in Rome, organizers plan to eventualy showcase it in different European countries.


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