Conserving a historic manuscript

The achtiname, which, according to legend, was gifted by the Prophet Muhammad to the Monastery in the 7th century, grants the Fathers special privileges and protection.

The library holds a later manuscript copy dating from the 16th century, which confirms the right to religious freedom and movement within Muslim countries and encouraged the peaceful coexistence of the two dominant religions in the region during that period. The monastery’s copy was repaired and remounted in 2001.

Donate to a project of your choice through our Projects page. Whether you feel passionate about safeguarding the Monastery and those who live within its walls from the threat of fire, or you wish to contribute to the ongoing preservation of the second most significant collection of Christian manuscripts in the world, you can ensure that 100% of your donation goes to the cause you most believe in.

Support us by becoming a member. Become a Friend, a Donor, or even a Benefactor and make a difference to the Saint Catherine Foundation projects that will continue to deliver benefits far into the future and well beyond this generation. In return, you’ll be one of the first to know about the dynamic and exciting projects taking place at the Monastery.

You’ll find Christmas cards, fascinating books on the Monastery and its artefacts, lithographs, tote bags and more in our online shop. 

All of the profits from our shop go directly to one of the many projects that we are raising funds for at any one time. By buying something from our shop, you make an essential contribution to the preservation, protection and dissemination of St Catherine’s Monastery and the irreplaceable artefacts that belong there.