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Report: Workshop in Gotha 08/2025
Workshop at the Research Library Gotha – Examining Oriental Manuscripts. The visit focused on the in-depth study of oriental manuscripts at the Gotha Research Library as part of the DAAD-funded project “Dealing with Material Culture in the Eastern Mediterranean: Between Excavation and Digitization (2023–2025)”, led by Philipps-Universität Marburg.
The project aims to comprehensively document and digitally preserve the material culture of the Eastern Mediterranean from the Pharaonic period to the modern era.
The visit was carried out by an international group of scholars, including Professor Dr. Ahmad Alshoky, Dr. Hassan Ebeid, and Dr. Mohammad Ibrahim from Ain Shams University, Cairo; Dr. Feras Krimsti from Gotha Research Library; Professor Herr Fuess from Philipps-Universität Marburg; and Master's student Ragab Kamal Abouhalima from Marburg.
Workshop Focus and Activities:
The workshop centered on the examination and intensive study of selected oriental manuscripts, both original manuscripts and digital copies. Participants conducted detailed research, analyzed materials, and carefully documented significant manuscripts for further scholarly work. An important part of the visit was also the examination of the Seetzen Collection, which had been brought from Egypt to Germany in the 19th century. It is therefore especially meaningful that a German–Egyptian team is now working together on this collection.
In addition, participants engaged in a thorough exchange of research ideas, exploring potential collaborations for future publications and joint projects to strengthen international academic cooperation.
The visit to Gotha was highly successful both organizationally and academically. Participants gained valuable insights into oriental manuscript culture and laid the groundwork for future research collaborations and joint projects.
Warmly welcomed
The scholarly group was warmly welcomed by the team of the Gotha Research Library, under the leadership of its director, Dr. Kathrin Paasch, together with Dr. Feras Krimsti, curator of the Oriental Manuscripts. Their support and expertise greatly enriched the workshop and facilitated the participants’ work with the collection.
Manuscripts
The workshop explored the material culture of Islamic manuscripts, with a particular focus on Seetzen’s collection—mainly the oriental part—examining techniques of coloring, sizing, and calligraphy. It provided valuable insights into historical manuscript production and preservation. A special emphasis was placed on the Seetzen Collection, which had been brought from Egypt to Germany in the 19th century. It is therefore especially meaningful that a German–Egyptian team is now collaboratively working on it.
Erfurt Excursion
Stunning Visits in Erfurt
On this exciting day, we were guided through the historic city of Erfurt, gaining unique insights into its rich cultural and religious heritage. We explored the impressive Erfurt Cathedral and the Church of St. Severus, admired the famous Krämerbrücke with its lively atmosphere, and learned more about the city’s long-standing role as a center of trade and scholarship.
Snacks & Talks in Gotha
During the breaks, the Ta’ziz project, in collaboration with the Gotha Research Library, created a welcoming space for stimulating conversations on Seetzen’s collection and the promising manuscripts, while fostering a lively exchange among participants.
