An exhibition of ancient handwritten books in Arabic script has opened at the State Museum of Fine Arts. These priceless exhibits were delivered to Turkmenistan from Saudi Arabia. The books date back to the seventh century, and it is hard to believe that their authors created these artifacts fourteen centuries ago. To preserve their condition, the books are placed in transparent, airtight display cases.

The book exhibition is surrounded by stands with photographs on religious themes, introducing visitors to the two holy cities for all Muslims - Mecca and Medina. Among the photographs are fragments from the displayed manuscripts and even illustrations to them.

A scientific-practical conference titled "Arabic manuscripts in Turkmenistan" was held in the museum's assembly hall. It was opened by Said Osman Ahmed Suweid, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Saudi Arabia to Turkmenistan, and Atageldi Shamyradov, Minister of Culture of Turkmenistan.

Speakers in their reports revealed the contents of the exhibited books. As a memento of this event, visitors to the exhibition could receive a card with their name written in Arabic script.