New exhibition features rare medieval artifact

A unique medieval container that once held the heart of an abbot who passed away in 1291 is now on public display. Known as the Heart Case of Roger de Norton, it was uncovered during renovations at St Albans Cathedral in 1872.

This small box fragment, adorned with Arabic inscriptions, likely originated in the 11th century in the region now known as Afghanistan. It is currently the highlight of the exhibition Worlds Connected: St Albans and the Islamic World, hosted at St Albans Museum & Gallery through February.

Catherine Newley from the museum explained, "This exhibition, developed alongside our local Muslim community, celebrates the shared heritage and historical ties between cultures. The Heart Case of Roger de Norton embodies this connection: an artifact from Afghanistan reaching St Albans almost a thousand years ago and becoming a treasured cathedral relic."

The journey of the box from Afghanistan to medieval St Albans remains a mystery. According to St Albans Museums, its presence illustrates centuries of craftsmanship, cultural exchange, and global connections stretching back nearly a millennium.

The exhibition also includes prized loans from St Albans Cathedral, the British Museum, and the Whipple Museum of the History of Science, alongside the museums own collections and newly co-created displays developed with local residents.

Worlds Connected highlights links between St Albans and Islamic cultures over the centuries through themes such as design, craftsmanship, trade, hospitality, clothing, and science. The display features ancient manuscripts, intricate metalwork, incense burners, scientific instruments, and contemporary community stories.

Farhana Begum from the museum added, "Visitors are invited to learn, reflect, and feel connected to the ongoing story of our city."

Author: Sophia Brooks