Moroccan museum participates in antiquities exhibition in Rome

A Moroccan private museum "Dar Belghazi Museum" is participating in an exhibition of pieces of classical art held in Rome January 12 through 20.

The Moroccan stand, covering a 300 m2 area, is displaying manuscripts, navigation instruments, traditional costumes, gold and silver jewels and wood items carved by craftsmen from Essaouira (Atlantic city 350 KM south of Casablanca). Some of the exhibited items date back to the 11th century.

The museum owner, Abdelilah Belghazi, who said he was keen on participating in the Rome exhibition to publicize Morocco's heritage, civilization and culture, shows with pride ancient manuscripts of the Koran, the Gospel and the Bible written on gazelle skin. Some of the manuscripts date back to the 15th and 17th centuries.