The Algerian Ministry of Culture announced today, Saturday, that the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has inscribed The Canon of Medicine (Book IV)—a rare manuscript preserved at the Algerian National Library—into the International Memory of the World Register.

In a statement, the ministry explained that it had submitted this nomination to "highlight the significance of this precious scientific artifact, which stands as a unique testimony to the development of medicine during the Middle Ages."

The ministry noted that "this manuscript derives its scientific and historical value not only from its precise medical content but also from its renowned owner: Muwaffaq al-Din Ibn al-Matran (As‘ad ibn Ilyas ibn Jurjus), the personal physician of Sultan Salah al-Din al-Ayyubi (Saladin), one of the most prominent leaders in Islamic history."

The statement added that "this manuscript is among the treasures preserved at the Algerian National Library, embodying a shared human scientific heritage that reflects the cultural and scientific exchange between Islamic and Christian civilizations during an era when knowledge served as a bridge between peoples."

The ministry affirmed that "the inclusion of this rare manuscript in the field of science and medicine in the Memory of the World Register represents global recognition of the importance of Algeria’s documentary heritage."

It further emphasized that "this achievement aligns with the country’s efforts and UNESCO’s objectives to protect humanity’s documentary treasures, ensure access to them, and encourage their integration into educational and cultural policies."

The statement concluded, "Through this international recognition, Algeria reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding humanity’s collective memory and underscores the importance of reviving ancient knowledge as a tool for intercultural dialogue and understanding."