Page 58 - MBRF PR REPORT - MAY 2025

5/16/25, 12:07 PM MBRF Kicks Off Participation At Turin Book Fair 2025 With A Seminar On 'The Legacy Of Muslim Sicily' Encyclopedia
Salma Khadra Jayyusi. The publication includes 30 scholarly essays by 29 researchers from Italy, the
Arab world, Europe and the Americas. Furthermore, H.E. highlighted that apart from recording Sicily's
Islamic era (831 -1091 CE), the encyclopedia also depicts the remarkable civilizational legacy that
influenced various aspects of the island, including its architecture, sciences, arts, language, and social
structures, marking a lasting impact on this Mediterranean crossroads.

In addition, H.E. bin Huwaireb emphasized that MBRF functions under the visionary leadership of His
Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE
and Ruler of Dubai, to promote cross-cultural dialogue and mutual understanding. He further
highlighted the pivotal role of knowledge in facilitating civilization exchange, noting that MBRF aims to
spotlight the lasting contributions of Arab and Muslim civilizations for human progress.

He also said that the release of the encyclopedia in English, with an Italian edition to follow, will open
new pathways for global scholarly exchange, providing historians and researchers with an authoritative
resource on a pivotal yet frequently overlooked chapter of Arab-European history. While Andalusia has
traditionally occupied the spotlight in discussions of Islamic influence in Europe, Sicily's equally rich
and transformative legacy is now being acknowledged as an integral part of our shared civilizational
heritage.

Dr. Attilio Petruccioli, a contributor to the encyclopedia, said:“I am honored to be a part of this pivotal
academic work that re-examines the architectural and urban legacy of the Arab-Islamic civilization in
Sicily. My essay in the publication is centered on analyzing architectural structures, urban planning,
and landscapes, using a methodology aimed at reconstructing typological processes and challenging
long-standing preconceptions that have often hindered research in this field.”

He said:“I have included tangible examples of various sites and buildings that highlight Arab cultural
presence in Sicily that are overlooked or completely attributed to the Norman period. Furthermore, I
have supervised in-depth studies on Islamic water infrastructure and gardens, which reflect the
established archaeological and architectural data. Through this publication, we have also introduced
new perspectives that require more research. We believe this book goes beyond mere documentation
of the past; rather, it serves as an open invitation to revisit history through a scientific and
methodological lens, fostering a deeper and more balanced understanding of the civilizations that have
shaped Mediterranean identity.”

Meanwhile, Dr. Francesco Violante explained that the publication indicates a significant move towards
a thorough understanding of the historical and cultural link between the people of the region, beyond
the conventional narratives that have often excluded the contributions of Islamic civilization from the
European narrative. This initiative revisits history based on diverse scientific sources to highlight the
pivotal role of Muslim Sicily in shaping geopolitical, economic, and cultural exchange, and the broader
Mediterranean identity. The encyclopedia also offers a fresh perspective on the experience of pluralism
and cultural coexistence, providing valuable contemporary insights into fostering mutual understanding
and dialogue. He added,“We hope this academic endeavor, encompassing studies in history, art,
architecture and society, will act as a catalyst for greater scholarly collaboration and inspire new
research initiatives aimed at reviving our shared heritage, grounded in the values of peace and
knowledge.”

MBRF's participation in the Turin International Book Fair is a remarkable milestone in its ambitious
efforts to boost its international influence and reinforce its position as a leading global hub for
knowledge. Furthermore, it signifies MBRF's unwavering commitment to establishing strategic
partnerships and exchange expertise in alignment with Dubai's vision to become a global powerhouse
of intellect, creativity and sustainable development.

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