To celebrate the end of Medina’s year as Islamic Capital of Culture in 2013, the British Museum has helped organise an exhibition in the Saudi Arabian city that opened earlier this month. Since non-Muslims are not allowed to visit Medina, the show is held at the Meridian Hotel Complex, outside the forbidden zone. Words and Illuminations (until 9 May), is divided broadly into two parts, one showing contemporary Arabic calligraphy and the other historic photography.

Read More: Exhibition Celebrates History of Islam’s Second Holiest City