The Museum of Islamic Art invites the public to learn more about Moroccan heritage during an upcoming lecture on “Museum of Islamic Art hosts lecture Sultans and Saints in Morocco: Public Texts, Royal Tombs, and the Prophet’s Descendants” organised as a legacy of the Qatar-Morocco 2024 Year of Culture. The lecture complements the ongoing exhibition “Splendours of the Atlas: A Voyage through Morocco’s Heritage,” which highlights Morocco’s rich artistic and historical identity.

Péter Tamás Nagy, an art historian, and archaeologist specialising in the Islamic world who currently works with Qatar Museums on mapping Doha’s heritage will take attendees through the history of royal funerary architecture in Morocco. 

Date: 26 January 2025
Time: 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM
Location: MIA Auditorium
Registration: Register here

About The Lecture

For centuries, Morocco’s sultanic funerary complexes have been more than just resting places for rulers—they have also been spaces for important communal ceremonies and rituals. These complexes played a key role in connecting the people to their leaders and their history. Evidence of this enduring tradition can be found in public writings, such as inscriptions on tombstones and even the text of Morocco’s first constitution in 1962. These sources show that similar practices spanned from the 14th to the 20th century, reflecting a deep cultural and historical continuity.

In parallel, the descendants of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged the honouring of their ancestors, particularly Idris I and Idris II, who were central figures in Morocco’s early Islamic history. This veneration was expressed through monuments and inscriptions, including phrases like barakat Muhammad, which means "the blessing of Muhammad." These traditions added spiritual significance to Morocco’s architectural and cultural landscape.

This lecture will dive into the fascinating history of how the commemoration of sultans and saints developed over time. It will also explore how these traditions shaped Morocco’s unique heritage, guiding the audience through notable architectural landmarks in cities like Rabat, Marrakesh, and Meknes, and shedding light on their historical and cultural importance.