Presentation of the XXV Conference on Islamic Culture in Huelva

The Plaza de las Monjas in Huelva has been the setting chosen for the presentation of a unique cultural event in our land: the XXV edition of the Islamic Culture Days of Almonaster la Real, which will take place from October 10 to 12 in this mountain jewel. An event that, after a quarter of a century, has established itself as a benchmark for dialogue, Andalusian heritage and international projection.

The presentation ceremony was attended by the president of the Provincial Council of Huelva, David Toscano; the mayor of Almonaster, Jacinto Vázquez; the delegate of Culture, Maria José; the director of the Symposium, Fátima Roldán; and the vice president of the Seville Mosque Foundation, Khalid Nieto, among other authorities.

David Toscano highlighted the value of a conference that “is much more than a cultural event: it is an example of coexistence, an open window to other cultures and a tourist and economic engine for the Sierra”. For his part, the mayor of Almonaster extended a cordial invitation to live “three days of celebration, reflection and meeting, in an atmosphere of peace and respect that reflects the essence of our Andalusian past”.

One of the most significant novelties of this edition is the presence of Portugal as a guest country, represented by the Islamic Festival of Mértola, with which it shares the mission of vindicating the Islamic legacy of the peninsula. Portuguese crafts, music and gastronomy will be very present throughout the three days.

The program combines academic rigor and popular participation. It includes the International Symposium “Almunias, orchards, gardens and architectures of power”, with prestigious researchers; henna, gastronomy or biodiversity workshops; street shows, Andalusian and Mediterranean music; an artisanal souk; and spiritual activities such as prayer and Dhikr in the Mosque.

Also noteworthy is the presence and conference of the riders who completed the pilgrimage to Mecca, from Almonaster la Real, leaving last year during the conference. More than 8000km of adventures that they told us in person.

The closing will have a markedly emotional and literary character, with a concert dedicated to the Andalusian poetesses, putting the finishing touch to a meeting that is already a hallmark of the province of Huelva.

From the Mosque Foundation of Seville, we are proud to be part of this initiative that reflects the richness of the Islamic heritage in Andalusia and promotes a message of understanding between cultures.