His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, presented a rare original historical manuscript to the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan, Italy, in the presence, Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs (SCFA).

The manuscript dates back to August 14, 1624, and includes a papal decree written by Pope Urban VIII and sealed in the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome. Additionally, His Highness gifted his book "Papal Bull" in both Arabic and English at the university’s premises.

The gifting ceremony began with a musical performance featuring classical pieces in Arabic, during which the students warmly welcomed His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah. They expressed their appreciation for his significant support, particularly through the Arab Cultural Institute in Milan and his efforts in promoting the Arabic language and its studies. The students conveyed their deep respect and admiration for His Highness in the Italian academic and cultural fields.

His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah graciously signed the book "Papal Bull of Pope Urban VIII”, dated August 4, 1624, in both Arabic and English. In the book dedicated to the university, His Highness wrote, "I present you this book in which I have documented, through investigation, research, and fairness, many details and facts about an important period of our history and yours. I have gathered its truths from around the world and documented them in Sharjah, and I leave it to you and to the future." This dedication is considered a scholarly contribution that reflects Sharjah's commitment to documenting history and enhancing cultural communication with global academic institutions.

His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah received a commemorative gift from the Rector of the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, which was an original 3D map of the city of Milan dating back to 1657.

During the visit, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah also toured the accompanying exhibition of historical manuscripts, showcasing several manuscripts in different languages and artifacts belonging to the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart. Additionally, His Highness viewed the original Olympic torch hosted by the university, learning about the students' participation in the Winter Olympic Games by carrying the torch during the opening ceremony in Milan next year.

Please click here to read His Highness' statement on this occasion.