Research Annals

Tombstones from Alexandria

The catalog of “Tombstones from Alexandria” is considered to be one of the most important studies carried out by a research team at Calligraphy Center, the Bibliotheca Alexandrina with the participation of the sector of Islamic monuments in the High Council of Monuments.
Due to the importance of this catalog considering Islamic tombstones important documents, it is reliable in the study of Arab Islamic civilization throughout its historical ages, with its written graffiti which reflect beliefs and culture of this society.

The catalog of Tombstones from Alexandria documents the tombstones of the Fine Arts Museum in Alexandria, which were transferred in 1940 from the old cemetery, in Mosques Square, which included the remains of most of the people of the city of Alexandria in the 19th century CE, of men, women and children remaining until today to reflect written graffiti which varied between Quranic verses and sayings indicating lament and eulogy to the deceased or perhaps to the way he died.
In addition to the content of these tombstones, the titles and functions referred to, the social status of the deceased; we also are informed of the study of the method and types of the Arabic calligraphy in that period, and study of the floral and geometric decorations, in addition to the raw material used, and compositions and methods for drilling.