Fatih Sultan Mehmet Vakif University (FSMVU) successfully hosted the 4th International Prof. Dr. Fuat Sezgin Symposium on the History of Islamic Science under the theme “Islamic Geography and Maritime History.” The event brought together 83 scholars from 22 countries.
Over the course of two days, participants presented 68 academic papers. Following the symposium, these papers will be compiled and published as a book. In addition to academic presentations, the symposium featured exhibitions showcasing three different historical maps and astrolabes, as well as various workshops all open to attendees.
In the opening remarks, distinguished speakers addressed the audience, including:
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Nevzat Simsek (Rector of FSMVU)
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Turan Gökçe (Vice-Rector)
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Hamza Akbulut (Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees)
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Davut Gül (Governor of Istanbul)
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Prof. Dr. Fuat Sezgin Islamic History of Science Research Foundation (İBTAV) Board Chairman Mecit Cetinkaya
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Nafiz Arıca (Rector of Piri Reis University)
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The Turkish Academy of Sciences (TÜBA) Chair Muzaffer Seker.
In his address, Rector Nevzat Simsek emphasized that this year's theme Islamic geography and maritime history offered a renewed opportunity to explore one of the most dynamic and influential dimensions of the Islamic scientific tradition. He highlighted historical Muslim scholars such as al-Biruni, Idrisî, Ibn Hurdâzbih and Mesʿûdî, noting their significant contributions to geography, cartography, navigation, knowledge of seas, currents, winds, and climate zones a heritage that underlines the rich scientific and interdisciplinary tradition of the Islamic world.
He also recalled that the vision of Prof. Dr. Fuat Sezgin transcended written texts and historical documents: through institutions he helped found, this vision has taken a concrete, institutional form. The History of Science Department at FSMVU personally established by Prof. Sezgin remains the first bachelor’s programme of its kind among foundation universities in Türkiye, serving as a key centre for both theoretical and applied research in the history of science.
FSMVU expresses its gratitude to all presenters, session chairs, researchers, and participants for their contributions to the success of the symposium. The University remains committed to advancing scholarly engagement, preserving the legacy of Islamic science, and fostering cross-disciplinary cooperation.
