Sharjah Ruler gifts historic 1624 papal manuscript and book Papal Bull to Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Milan.
Milan: In a significant gesture of Sharjah cultural diplomacy, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, presented a rare 1624 manuscript and his historical book Papal Bull to the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan. Accompanied by Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, he gifted the document—containing a papal decree issued by Pope Urban VIII—to reinforce academic collaboration and cross-cultural understanding.
In his keynote speech, His Highness reflected on the importance of the manuscript, which was issued to fund the Portuguese fleet’s efforts to reclaim Hormuz from English and Persian forces. He detailed how he translated and verified the document, tracking church contributions amounting to 200,000 Portuguese cruzados to build a naval fleet. His book Papal Bull chronicles this historic episode with scholarly depth.
The Ruler highlighted the broader geopolitical context, noting the 1622 expulsion of the Portuguese from Hormuz after 115 years, and the vital role religion and power played in colonial strategy. He emphasised how the document symbolises shared histories between Europe and the Arabian Gulf.
Dr Elena Beccalli, Rector of the university, hailed the gift’s academic value, calling the book a “comprehensive reference” of doctoral calibre. She applauded Sharjah’s support through the Arab Cultural Institute and praised the Ruler’s commitment to historical research and dialogue.
Bishop Paolo Martinelli, via written address, emphasised how such cultural exchanges reflect the “importance of fostering cooperation through knowledge.” Student Alessandro Bottia echoed this sentiment, thanking the Sharjah Ruler for promoting Arabic studies.
The visit featured a classical Arabic music performance, a tour of a manuscript exhibition, and the presentation of a 1657 Milan map to the Ruler. His Highness also viewed the university’s Olympic torch and student involvement in the upcoming Winter Games.
The inscription in the gifted copy of Papal Bull read: “I present to you this book… a contribution to both the present and the future.” The visit reaffirmed Sharjah’s dedication to cultural preservation and scholarly engagement.
