Arabic Cultural Institute In Milan Celebrates Arab Heritage And Influence In Andalusia

The Arabic Cultural Institute (ACI) at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan, in partnership with the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), celebrated the accomplishments of graduates from an Arabic calligraphy workshop. The ceremony featured a lecture on Arab and Islamic heritage in Andalusia. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA; Mario Gatti, Director of the Catholic University; and Dr. Wael Farouq, Director of ACI, were present.

Al Ameri emphasised that this event reflects His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi's vision to promote Arab culture and its humanitarian values globally. He stated, "Honouring the achievements of Italian students who have mastered the art of Arabic calligraphy is a powerful testament to the success of our collaborative efforts in bridging cultural divides. It highlights the enduring values of tolerance, compassion, and openness that Arab culture promotes."

The workshop concluded with recognition for students who excelled in Arabic calligraphy despite not reading or writing Arabic. These individuals demonstrated precision and mastery in their work. Al Ameri and the university director honoured them for preserving Arabic script's beauty and enriching Europe's cultural landscape.

Dr. Farouq commended the institute's success over two and a half months in organising integrated cultural activities. He remarked, "It is truly inspiring to see the institute serve as a meeting point for individuals from diverse Western cultures who admire Arab civilisation and acknowledge its contributions to modern global progress. Inspired by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, we remain committed to promoting dialogue, tolerance, and creativity while upholding our responsibility to strengthen global cultural understanding."

Spanish historian Father José Pascual Martínez delivered a lecture highlighting Arab culture's influence on Europe’s social fabric, especially in Andalusia. He explored language development, fashion, social traditions, irrigation systems, and musical arts as key areas where Arab culture left a lasting impact on European civilisation.

The Arabic Cultural Institute has established itself as a vibrant hub for showcasing Arab heritage in Europe through initiatives like book clubs and film screenings. These efforts aim to spread knowledge and foster shared human values while building bridges between nations.

Cultural Exchange Initiatives

Participants noted that learning Ruqah and Diwani scripts was an enriching experience requiring skill and precision. The programme highlighted Arabic letters' artistic beauty while exploring their spiritual dimensions.

The institute organised various activities over two and a half months, including reading clubs, film screenings, and workshops on Arabic calligraphy. These initiatives aimed to nurture shared human values and build bridges between different cultures.

This event underscores ACI's role as a dynamic centre for promoting Arab heritage across Europe through continuous cultural programming.

With inputs from WAM