Delegation from Imam Hussain Holy Shrine visits Islamic Pavilion at the British Museum
A delegation from the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine, led by Dr. Alaa Diyaa Al-Deen, General Supervisor of the Shrine’s Museum, visited the British Museum in London as part of a cultural tour aimed at strengthening knowledge exchange and exploring prominent Islamic artifacts and manuscripts housed in leading international museums.
The visit included an in-depth tour of the Islamic Pavilion, which features a rare and extensive collection of Islamic manuscripts, artworks, and archaeological artifacts. These exhibits trace the rich and diverse history of Islamic civilization across centuries, offering both visual and scholarly insights into the spiritual and cultural legacy of the Muslim world.
Dr. Alaa Diyaa Al-Deen remarked, “Today we stand in the heart of the British Museum, one of the world’s foremost institutions in cultural diversity and heritage. During our visit to the Islamic Hall, we encountered remarkable artifacts, including pieces that honor the Imams of Ahlulbayt (peace be upon them). The names of Imam Ali, Imam Hussain, and the Infallible Imams (peace be upon them) are inscribed in this global knowledge space, which is an acknowledgment of their enduring legacy.”
He continued, “We observed a significant interest from international visitors, reflecting a genuine curiosity about Islamic civilization. Additionally, the presence of Mesopotamian heritage, especially in the Ancient Iraqi Antiquities Hall, drew strong engagement and admiration from those in attendance.”
Dr. Al-Deen emphasized that the tour is part of the Holy Shrine's broader efforts to build bridges of cultural understanding with global institutions. “These initiatives aim to amplify the presence of Husseini and Islamic heritage in the collective human memory, aligning with our vision for modern, narrative-driven museum experiences rooted in documentation and authenticity,” he said.
He concluded, “Though Karbala and London are far apart, the spirit of ‘Labbaik Ya Hussain’ accompanied us. Within these halls, where knowledge meets loyalty and civilization meets message, the voice of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) was deeply felt.”
This visit by the delegation from the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine stands as more than a cultural exchange. It represents a profound civilizational statement, affirming that Islamic heritage, Iraqi civilization, and the message of Karbala can resonate powerfully within global institutions. It also confirms that the universal values of Imam Hussain (peace be upon him) continue to cross borders, becoming an integral part of the shared human experience.