Rare 400-Year-Old Handwritten Quran on Display in Sulaymaniyah

A rare handwritten copy of the Quran, estimated to be around 400 years old, is on display in the village of Gelezerde, near Sulaymaniyah, Iraq, Daily Sabah reported. This ancient manuscript, preserved through generations, has attracted significant public interest and is showcased in a glass case during local festivals.

Known as the “Gelezerde Quran,” the manuscript bears the seal of renowned Islamic scholar Sheikh Hasan Gelezerde and is considered a sacred item for swearing oaths. It was featured in the Second Faith Festival organized by the University of Sulaymaniyah, alongside other historical Islamic texts.

Written in thuluth script, the Quran measures 24 by 40 centimeters and is 9 centimeters thick. A note from Sheikh Hasan’s mother expresses her humility regarding any mistakes in the writing. Although restored in 2015, some parts have sustained water damage.