Graphic novel Safar wins an award
The novel was developed as part of the research project The European Qur’an (EuQu), in which Professor Jan Loop from the Department of Biblical Exegesis was one of the Principal Investigators. The prize is awarded to works that promote dialogue and reflection on religion, culture and society. The award ceremony will take place in October 2026 in Paris.
The graphic novel Safar: A Graphic Novel about the History of the Qur’an in Europe, published by Petit à Petit, has been awarded the French Prix Écritures & Spiritualités 2026.
The word ‘Safar’ comes from Arabic and means ‘journey’ – and the novel depicts the Qur’an’s journey through European history. Or, as the subtitle puts it: Seven centuries of journeys, adventures and encounters, from medieval monasteries to Napoleon, via Luther and Goethe, to discover how the Qur’an has become part of European culture.
Research communication can take many forms
The graphic novel is one of several outreach elements in the research project The European Qur’an (EuQu). Podcasts have also been produced, public lectures held and exhibitions organised in Vienna, Nantes, Tunisia, Istanbul, Ankara and Granada.
In addition, public events, educational workshops for schools and students and summer schools for students from all over the world have been held.
- For us, it was important to tell the story of the Qur’an and Islam in Europe to a wide audience and also to reach out to younger people – from school pupils to university students. The graphic novel, like all our other activities, shows that Islam and the Qur’an have always been present in Europe and have influenced European culture, religion and society for centuries,’ says Jan Loop.
Further publications related to the project
The project concluded in March 2026, with scientific publications forming the core of its activities. This has led to a dedicated book series, which already comprises 10 volumes published by De Gruyter Brill. Special issues of journals have also been produced, such as one on The Turkish Wars and the study of Islam and the Qur’an in early modern Europe.
What’s next?
The graphic novel is part of a series of activities aimed at reaching a young audience, an endeavour now being recognised with the award ceremony, which will take place in October 2026 at the Grand Mosque in Paris. The project members are working on translating the novel into Italian and English.