14th-century Mamluk Mushaf of Montenegrin origin restored in Turkey

Brought from Montenegro to Turkey and preserved for generations, the 14th-century Mamluk Mushaf has been revived following a meticulous restoration and digitization process.

Origins of the Historical Mushaf

Dating back to the 14th century and known as a work of Montenegrin origin, the Mamluk Mushaf was endowed in the second half of the 16th century by Taşlıcalı Hüseyin Pasha to the mosque bearing his name.

Described by Balkan expert Machiel Kiel as one of the finest examples of Islamic calligraphy and bookmaking in the Balkans, this precious work has been handed down from generation to generation by Montenegrin Muslims, surviving wars, oppressions, and migrations to the present day.

Restoration and Facsimile Process

Taken up by the experts of the Presidency of Turkish Manuscripts (TÜYEK) upon the instructions of President Erdoğan, the artifact was successfully restored.

Digitized and prepared for printing by the Department of Manuscript Mushafs, the facsimile production of the Mushaf was carried out by the Istanbul Governorate under the coordination of TÜYEK.

Presentation of the First Copy and Return Process

The first copy of the historically restored and printed Mushaf was presented to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan.

In the coming days, the artifact will be returned to its homeland of Montenegro through the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities (YTB) and the organization of the Islamic Union of Montenegro.

Acknowledgments and Scientific Committee

Minister Ersoy expressed his gratitude to President Erdoğan for safeguarding the historical heritage and acknowledged those who contributed to this important project.

Thanks were extended to Mehmet Emin Maşalı, Head of the Scientific Committee of the TÜYEK Department of Manuscript Mushafs who guided the work, committee member Calligrapher Mehmet Özçay, and Vice President of Religious Affairs Osman Şahin.