In a significant gesture of cultural diplomacy, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, presented a rare historical manuscript to the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan, Italy. The manuscript, dated August 14, 1624, contains a papal decree issued by Pope Urban VIII and sealed at the Church of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome. This decree was aimed at raising funds to support the Portuguese fleet’s efforts to reclaim Hormuz from English and Persian forces.
In the company of Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs, Sheikh Sultan also gifted his book, Papal Bull: Pope Urban VIII Pope of the Catholic Church Dated August 14, 1624, in both Arabic and English. The book provides a comprehensive historical context and scholarly analysis of the decree, detailing the geopolitical dynamics of the early 17th century, including the conflict between the Portuguese and the English in Hormuz.
Sheikh Sultan emphasised the value of scholarly cooperation throughout the ceremony and conveyed his gratitude for the university’s cordial welcome. He highlighted the common history of the Arabian Gulf and Europe, pointing out that the document represents an important era of intercultural exchange. The event also featured a musical performance by the university’s ensemble, showcasing classical pieces in Arabic as a tribute to Sheikh Sultan’s contributions to promoting the Arabic language and culture.
In recognition of this generous contribution, the Rector of the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart presented Sheikh Sultan with an original 3D map of the city of Milan dating back to 1657. The visit concluded with a tour of the university’s exhibition of historical manuscripts and artifacts, further solidifying the cultural ties between Sharjah and Milan.
