The British Museum travels to the heart of Islam

Hajj: journey to the heart of Islam is the first major exhibition dedicated to the Hajj; the pilgrimage to Mecca (Makkah) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia which is central to the Muslim faith. The exhibition, organized by the British Museum (London, United Kingdom) examines the significance of the Hajj as one of the Five Pillars of Islam, exploring its importance for Muslims and looking at how this spiritual journey has evolved throughout history.

It brings together a wealth of objects from a number of different collections including important historic pieces as well as new contemporary art works which reveal the enduring impact of Hajj across the globe and across the centuries. The exhibition examines three key strands: the pilgrim's journey with an emphasis on the major routes used across time (from Africa, Asia, Europe and the Middle East); the Hajj today, its associated rituals and what the experience means to the pilgrim; and Mecca, the destination of Hajj, its origins and importance.

Loans include significant material from Saudi Arabia including a seetanah which covers the door of the Ka'ba as well as other historic and contemporary artefacts from key museums in the Kingdom. Other objects have come from major public and private collections in the UK and around the world. They include archaeological material, manuscripts, textiles, historic photographs and contemporary art.

Date: until April 15.
Location: British Museum, Great Russell Street, London, WC1B 3DG. United Kingdom.
Opening hours: from Monday to Sunday, from 10am to 5.30pm.