Mamluks 1250-1517

In spring 2025, the musée du Louvre invites you to enjoy an exceptional exhibition dedicated to the Mamluk Sultanate (1250 - 1517). This exhibition traces the glorious and unique history of this Egyptian-Syrian empire, considered to be the golden age of the Islamic Middle East.

An unprecedented collection

Bringing together 260 works from international collections, the exhibition explores the richness of this unique and little-known society. You will be able to admire a magnificent selection of textiles, artefacts, manuscripts, paintings and ivories**, as well as stone and woodwork. These pieces bear witness to the lasting influence of Mamluk visual culture on the history of architecture and the arts in Egypt, Syria, Lebanon, Israel/Palestinian Territories and Jordan.

A unique dynasty

At the origin of this dynasty was an original system of military slaves, known as ‘mamlouks’, who were mainly of Turkish and then Caucasian origin. Educated in Islam and warrior disciplines, these slaves formed a military caste that controlled the state. The Mamluk dynasty built its legend on its warrior power, defeating the last Crusader strongholds, repelling the Mongols and surviving the invasions of Tamerlane.

A cosmopolitan society

Mamluk society was a mosaic of populations, based on diversity and mobility. It developed a complex and protean culture, forming the cultural heart of the Arab world. Sultans, emirs, rich civil elites, women, Christian and Jewish minorities lived together in a strategic territory where Europe, Africa and Asia converged. The exchange of people, ideas and goods shaped a rich and diverse culture.

Thanks to a spectacular scenography and immersive** media spaces**, the exhibition offers a captivating insight into the world of the Mamluks, divided into five thematic sections. A series of historical portraits will also enable you to meet some of the most emblematic figures of the period.

Art and history** are revealed in the Paris Region's exhibitions.