Monday, 25 May 2026
Egypt opens museum honoring the nation’s Quran reciters
Egypt has inaugurated a remarkable new museum dedicated to preserving the legacy of its most celebrated Quran reciters—a move heralded as a cultural and spiritual milestone for the country and the Muslim world.
The “Museum of Quran Reciters”, an initiative of Egypt’s Ministry of Culture in collaboration with the Ministry of Religious Endowments (Awqaf), officially opened its doors this week in Egypt’s New Capital. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Dr. Ahmed Fouad Henno, Minister of Culture, Dr. Osama Al-Azhari, Minister of Awqaf, and Eng. Khaled Abbas, Chairman of the New Capital Company.
The museum, housed within the Egyptian Center for Islamic Culture, seeks to honor and immortalize the icons of Egypt’s renowned Quranic recitation school—an art form that has profoundly shaped spiritual experiences for generations across the Islamic world. Displaying personal belongings, rare manuscripts, and historical recordings, the museum showcases the lives and legacies of eleven legendary Egyptian reciters, including Sheikh Mohamed Rifaat, Sheikh Abdul Fattah Al Sha’sha’i, Sheikh Taha Al-Fashni, Sheikh Mustafa Ismail, Sheikh Mahmoud Khalil Al-Hussary, and others.
During their visit, the ministers explored the museum’s four main galleries, marveling at the thoughtful design and valuable collections curated by architect Karim El-Shaboury. The exhibition offers a multisensory journey: visitors can view handwritten Quranic manuscripts, listen to captivating archival recitations, and immerse themselves in the unique sounds and traditions that have defined Egyptian Quranic performance.
Dr. Ahmed Fouad Henno, Minister of Culture, emphasized that the museum is a testament to Egypt’s deep reverence for its reciters—guardians of the Quran and ambassadors of a revered spiritual and artistic tradition. “The voices of Egypt’s Quran reciters are woven into the very fabric of our cultural and spiritual identity,” Dr. Henno noted. “This museum stands as a cultural and religious beacon, preserving the artistry, beauty, and discipline that have made Egyptian recitation a source of global admiration.”
The museum aims not only to document individual achievements but also to highlight the distinct characteristics of the Egyptian school of recitation—renowned for its scientific precision, emotional resonance, and refined aesthetic approach. Dr. Henno underscored the importance of protecting this non-material heritage for future generations, helping them appreciate the enduring value of these remarkable traditions.
Dr. Osama Al-Azhari, Minister of Awqaf, described the opening as a vital step in maintaining Egypt’s moderate religious identity and introducing young people to the lives and contributions of recitation’s great masters. “Egyptian reciters brought the Quran to hearts before reaching ears,” he said. “Their dedication has spread the true understanding of the divine word and instilled deep spiritual values.”
With its blend of cultural, educational, and devotional experiences, the Museum of Quran Reciters is the first institution of its kind in the world. It reflects Egypt’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding its rich spiritual legacy and presenting it to both national and international visitors in a spirit of openness, beauty, and enlightenment.