British Museum

Muslim Connections at The British Museum

An amazing tour discovering the world famous British museum that provides an insight to the Muslim connections!

Established in 1753, largely based on the collections of scientist Sir Hans Sloane in Montagu House on the site of the current buildings. starting of with 80,000 natural and artifical rarities, with over 40,000 books and manuscrpits and 32,000 coins and medals and now 8 million objects make the British Museum a top attraction in London!

Other timings can be considered. Please email to enquire.

Highlights

• Unsung hero who helped in the beginning, Ayub Suliaman Diallo, was a prominent historical figure in the 18th century. He was a Muslim from West Africa who was enslaved in the American colonies but later gained his freedom. His life story is significant because it sheds light on the experiences of enslaved Africans and their efforts to maintain their Islamic faith in a new and challenging environment.
• Muslim pioneers at the Reading Room, Abdullah Quilliam and Haji Mohammad Dollie. Abdullah Quilliam was a British convert to Islam in the late 19th century and played a significant role in the early Muslim community in Britain. Haji Mohammad Dollie was another prominent figure in the British Muslim community. Their contributions helped establish a foundation for Islam in Britain.
• Objects outside the Islamic Gallery
• Interpretation and language. the importance of accurate and respectful terminology when discussing Islamic history and culture by  avoiding terms like “Islamic World” and “Islamic Golden Era” can help prevent broad generalisations, stereotypes and Islamophobia.
• Britain’s earlist connection with Muslims, go back to 141 years after the death of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
• Vikings and their Muslim connections. There is evidence to states that Vikings, during their explorations and raids, came into contact with Muslims in regions such as the Mediterranean and the Middle East. These interactions could have influenced Viking culture and brought back valuable items from their travels.
• Salahuddin and Richard I. Salahuddin, also known as Saladin, was a famous Muslim military leader who fought during the Crusades. Richard I, also known as Richard the Lionheart, was a prominent figure on the Christian side of the Crusades. They are known for their military clashes and negotiations during this historical period.
• Dr. Leitner and Britain’s first purpose-built Mosque (1887): Dr. Leitner was involved in the establishment of the first purpose-built mosque in Britain, located in Woking. This mosque played a pivotal role in the development of Islam in the UK and provided a place of worship and community for Muslims in the late 19th century. We look at his connection to the Museum.
• A glimpse at the Islamic Gallery. The gallery looks impressive but is their a deeper message being amplified.