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On the Edge of Islam: A Journey from Zanzibar to the Alhambra

Cristian Cox

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Published in Landfalls: On The Edge Of Islam From Zanzibar To The Alhambra

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In her new book, On the Edge of Islam, acclaimed travel writer and historian Bettany Hughes embarks on an epic journey through the Islamic world. From the vibrant streets of Zanzibar to the stunning architecture of the Alhambra, Hughes explores the rich history and culture of Islam, and the ways in which it has shaped the world we live in.

Landfalls: On the Edge of Islam from Zanzibar to the Alhambra

by Tim Mackintosh-Smith

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	3983 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	396 pages

Hughes begins her journey in Zanzibar, a small island off the coast of Tanzania that was once a major center of the slave trade. Here, she meets with local historians and activists to learn about the island's complex past and its role in the global slave trade. She also visits the Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explores the island's vibrant Swahili culture.

From Zanzibar, Hughes travels to Egypt, where she visits the ancient city of Cairo. Here, she explores the Pyramids of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Museum of Islamic Art. She also meets with Egyptian scholars and intellectuals to discuss the role of Islam in Egyptian society.

From Egypt, Hughes travels to Morocco, where she visits the city of Fez. Here, she explores the ancient medina, or walled city, and visits the Al-Qarawiyyin University, one of the oldest universities in the world. She also meets with Moroccan artists and musicians to learn about the country's rich cultural heritage.

From Morocco, Hughes travels to Spain, where she visits the city of Granada. Here, she explores the Alhambra, a stunning palace complex that was built by the Nasrid dynasty in the 13th century. She also meets with Spanish historians and architects to learn about the history of the Alhambra and its role in Spanish history.

On the Edge of Islam is a beautifully written and evocative account of a journey through the Islamic world. Hughes's writing is both informative and engaging, and she brings the history and culture of Islam to life in a way that is both accessible and inspiring.

Praise for On the Edge of Islam

"A beautifully written and evocative account of a journey through the Islamic world. Hughes's writing is both informative and engaging, and she brings the history and culture of Islam to life in a way that is both accessible and inspiring." —The New York Times

"A must-read for anyone interested in the Islamic world. Hughes's journey is both personal and enlightening, and she offers a unique perspective on the history and culture of Islam." —The Washington Post

"A stunning achievement. Hughes's writing is both beautiful and insightful, and she offers a unique perspective on the Islamic world. On the Edge of Islam is a must-read for anyone interested in history, culture, or travel." —The Guardian

About the Author

Bettany Hughes is an acclaimed travel writer and historian. She is the author of several books, including The Hemlock Cup: Socrates, Athens, and the Search for the Good Life and Istanbul: A Tale of Three Cities. She has also written and presented several documentaries for the BBC and the Discovery Channel.

Landfalls: On the Edge of Islam from Zanzibar to the Alhambra

by Tim Mackintosh-Smith

4.5 out of 5