Alessandro Bausani was an eminent Italian scholar of Islam and a polyglot who sought to bridge the gap between the Arabic original and the Italian language without losing the "prophetic" tone of the text. His work is characterized by:
Bausani's translation of the Quran is significant for several reasons:
The success and demand for Bausani’s translation are evident in its long and varied publication history. After the initial Sansoni edition, it was republished multiple times by different prestigious publishers:
Bridging Cultures: A Deep Dive into Alessandro Bausani’s "Il Corano"
The PDF version of "Il Corano" offers several benefits, including: Bausani Il Corano.pdf
This is a critical point. While many websites list links for , users must exercise caution. The Italian copyright law (Legge 22 aprile 1941, n. 633) protects the work. Bausani died in 1988; his works will enter the public domain 70 years after his death (i.e., 2058). Therefore, any free PDF currently circulating online is technically a violation of copyright held by the publisher (Rizzoli Libri S.p.A. or Sansoni).
Alessandro Bausani’s 1955 translation of the Qur'an is widely recognized as the most authoritative and influential Italian version, balancing rigorous scholarship with literary quality. The work, often published by BUR, is esteemed for its historical-critical approach, extensive commentary, and objective treatment of complex theological concepts. Discover the 2022 updated edition at Il Corano. Edizione aggiornata 2022 - Amazon.it
The "Bausani edition" is often prized less for the translation itself and more for its extensive introductory essay and footnotes. In these sections, Bausani addresses the historical context of the Revelation, the structure of the text, and the challenges of translating a book that Muslims consider to be the literal, untranslatable word of God. He famously explored the concept of "Islamic monotheism" not just as a theological dogma, but as a revolutionary social and existential shift in the 7th-century Arabian Peninsula. Legacy in Islamic Studies
To appreciate the translation, one must first understand the polymath who created it. Alessandro Bausani (Rome, 1921 – 1988) was a titan of Oriental studies, celebrated as one of Italy's greatest scholars of Islam. His expertise spanned an astonishing range of fields: he was an Arabist, Iranist, historian of religions, glottothete, and even an Esperantist. Alessandro Bausani was an eminent Italian scholar of
While newer translations exist—such as those by Ida Zilio-Grandi or versions focused on chronological order with modern punctuation —Bausani’s version is the classic starting point for anyone serious about Islamic studies in Italy . Final Thoughts
"In the quiet of dawn, when darkness fades, Guidance unfolds, like the pages turned. A book of wisdom, for all who seek, In Bausani’s words, a bridge unique.
Alessandro Bausani ’s translation of the (Koran) is widely considered the most authoritative and prestigious Italian version of the Islamic holy book . First published in 1955, it remains the academic and literary standard due to its linguistic precision and deep historical context. Overview of the Work
Even in an age of digital information, Bausani’s Il Corano stands as a monument of careful, passionate, and profound scholarship—a true "point of reference" for anyone, believer or scholar, seeking to engage seriously with the Holy Book of Islam. While many websites list links for , users
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Alessandro Bausani’s 1955 Italian translation of the Quran is considered a cornerstone of Orientalist literature, praised for its philological rigor, poetic sensitivity, and extensive scholarly commentary. Widely regarded as a "gold standard," this work offers a comprehensive introduction and structural clarity that benefits both researchers and general readers. For more details, visit IL CORANO.pdf - IRIS
Notably, Bausani deliberately avoided the sūra order’s theological “chronological” rearrangement (favored by some non-Muslim scholars like Richard Bell). He retains the standard muṣḥaf order but indicates Meccan vs. Medinan origin in the heading of each sūra .