Uzbekistan's historical exhibits to be shown in Saudi Arabia

The first biennale of Islamic art will be held in Jeddah from 23 January to 23 April. There will be 17 exhibits from Uzbekistan.

The event is organised in cooperation with Diry Biennale Foundation and Ministry of Culture of Saudi Arabia. Its aim is to 'connect the past, present and future'.

The main theme of the binnale is 'Awwal Bayt', which means 'first home' in Arabic.

Historical heritage of Uzbekistan will be presented at the Biennale by the Foundation for the Development of Culture and Art of the Republic.

Uzbekistan will display several pages of Qattalangar Quran of VIII century, one of the most important manuscripts in the Islamic world; a collection of hadiths titled "Al-Jome as-Sahih Imam al-Bukhari" of XVII century; ceramic jars and bowls from Samarkand and Afrasiab of X-XII centuries; national dress and shoes and others.

As part of the Biennale, the Foundation plans to organise an extensive public programme to promote the country's cultural heritage. It includes discussions, musical performances, film screenings and workshops.