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Travels Of Ibn Jubayr
Written more than eight hundred years ago and now translated into English. This is the first hand account of a wise and scholarly Spanish Muslim's pilgrimage to Makka and Madina, the two holy cities of Islam, and his travels to Baghdad, the city of the Caliphs, to the first onslaught of Salah al-din. Greatly detailed is his journey through Egypt anf the many towns and villages to the Hijaz, Arabia and beyond. A predecessor to Ibn Batuta. Translated by Ronald Broadhurst.
The reader is kept closely en rapport with the original author, the translation being as exact as English syntax and style will permit, abiding faithfully by the words, arrangement and imagery, and following the rigorous canons of oriental scholarship. Ronald Broadhurst has worked under the guidance of Professor Arberry, Professor of Arabic at the University of Cambridge.
The book is provided with full notes that include not only those of a specialist character that a scholarly work of this type requires but also those that will help and even entertain the general reader.
The reader is kept closely en rapport with the original author, the translation being as exact as English syntax and style will permit, abiding faithfully by the words, arrangement and imagery, and following the rigorous canons of oriental scholarship. Ronald Broadhurst has worked under the guidance of Professor Arberry, Professor of Arabic at the University of Cambridge.
The book is provided with full notes that include not only those of a specialist character that a scholarly work of this type requires but also those that will help and even entertain the general reader.
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First published January 1, 1952
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
January 1, 2023
I discovered a dusty copy of this book in a second hand bookshop recently, and was seduced by the two foldout maps, black and white with the route marked in red. The travel of Ibn Jubayr, an 11th century Muslim pilgrim from Andalusia to Mecca and back on a circuitous route looked an excellent journey, undertaken from 1183 to 1185.
However, as I probably should have predicted, as it is the work of a pilgrim it is highly focussed on the religious aspects, and is swamped down by religious interjections and praise, and unfortunately for me was seldom focussed on the journey. There are some great descriptions of (religious) architecture, and most of the culture and lifestyle of the people he came into contact with held enough interest. There is however, no doubt this is primarily a religious record of pilgrimage, and the ritual and ceremony was too dominant for me and the long lists of Arabic names of various shrines and martyrs tombs all blur beyond meaning for me.
Who was Ibn Jubayr? The introduction tells us he was the secretary of the Moorish Governor of Granada (Spain). Following 'the temperance of the prophet' he refused a glass of wine, and somehow upset his master, who forced 'seven cups upon him',then in remorse awarded the clerk seven cups of golden dinars! Ibn Jubayr at once determined he would use the gold to discharge the duty of the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca, now having the funds available to do so.
The route: From Spain to Ceuta on the North African coast, to Sardinia, to Alexandria, inland up the Nile as far as Aydhab (now abandoned and in disputed territory between Egypt and Sudan), across the Red Sea to Mecca. Several months were spent in Mecca, then on to Medina (both Saudi), across the desert under Bedouin control into the Caliphate (or Iraq) to Baghdad and Mosul, west to Nasibin in an area that is now Turkey, but at the time was under Saladin's control. Further west into Syria then into the Kingdom of Jerusalem and Acre (in Israel) to Zante (now Zakynthos in Greece) to Sicily to Ibiza and Formentera and back to Grenada. I have omitted the many towns and cities en route, which were stopovers and locations of religious significance (or at least made to be!).
Ibn Jubayr lived during an important time in history, it was a few centuries before Moorish Spain fell to the Christians; Saladin was ruling in Egypt; Northern Italy, Corsica and Sardinia consisted of the Holy Roman Empire; Constantinople was waning and new powers were arising in the East. There were some very good short interludes to the story. The arrival in Alexandria (Egypt) and dealing with the customs; the description of the water clock in a mosque in Damascus; and the descriptions of markets and trade goods, which obviously caught the interest of the Clerk.
I really can't recommend this unless you have a keen interest in Islam and the Hajj, or for the historical study of the pilgrimage itself.
3 stars for its perpetual record of this journey.
However, as I probably should have predicted, as it is the work of a pilgrim it is highly focussed on the religious aspects, and is swamped down by religious interjections and praise, and unfortunately for me was seldom focussed on the journey. There are some great descriptions of (religious) architecture, and most of the culture and lifestyle of the people he came into contact with held enough interest. There is however, no doubt this is primarily a religious record of pilgrimage, and the ritual and ceremony was too dominant for me and the long lists of Arabic names of various shrines and martyrs tombs all blur beyond meaning for me.
Who was Ibn Jubayr? The introduction tells us he was the secretary of the Moorish Governor of Granada (Spain). Following 'the temperance of the prophet' he refused a glass of wine, and somehow upset his master, who forced 'seven cups upon him',then in remorse awarded the clerk seven cups of golden dinars! Ibn Jubayr at once determined he would use the gold to discharge the duty of the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca, now having the funds available to do so.
The route: From Spain to Ceuta on the North African coast, to Sardinia, to Alexandria, inland up the Nile as far as Aydhab (now abandoned and in disputed territory between Egypt and Sudan), across the Red Sea to Mecca. Several months were spent in Mecca, then on to Medina (both Saudi), across the desert under Bedouin control into the Caliphate (or Iraq) to Baghdad and Mosul, west to Nasibin in an area that is now Turkey, but at the time was under Saladin's control. Further west into Syria then into the Kingdom of Jerusalem and Acre (in Israel) to Zante (now Zakynthos in Greece) to Sicily to Ibiza and Formentera and back to Grenada. I have omitted the many towns and cities en route, which were stopovers and locations of religious significance (or at least made to be!).
Ibn Jubayr lived during an important time in history, it was a few centuries before Moorish Spain fell to the Christians; Saladin was ruling in Egypt; Northern Italy, Corsica and Sardinia consisted of the Holy Roman Empire; Constantinople was waning and new powers were arising in the East. There were some very good short interludes to the story. The arrival in Alexandria (Egypt) and dealing with the customs; the description of the water clock in a mosque in Damascus; and the descriptions of markets and trade goods, which obviously caught the interest of the Clerk.
I really can't recommend this unless you have a keen interest in Islam and the Hajj, or for the historical study of the pilgrimage itself.
3 stars for its perpetual record of this journey.
July 29, 2008
One of the books I regard as most precious on my shelf. I read it a few years back, when in university.
It depicts the travels of Ibn Jubayr, a qadhi or judge from Spain on his way to perform pilgrimage / Hajj in the Holy Land of Mecca.
It was full of his praise for ALlah for everything he saw along the journey - for buildings, ships, and so on. He mentioned about the political and social condition of his time, including the rumours about the Caliph.
I can even feel the aura of religiosity of that time, how they venerate the hujjaj on the way to and back from Mecca by giving them bread, hugs and kisses - full of love.
However, one strong point of interest to me is when Ibn Jubayr mentioned about the riddah / apostasy, it happened even during his time, though as secluded and rare cases, where the Muslim civilisation meets the West at some territorial boundaries (I forgot which Muslim territory it took place).
It depicts the travels of Ibn Jubayr, a qadhi or judge from Spain on his way to perform pilgrimage / Hajj in the Holy Land of Mecca.
It was full of his praise for ALlah for everything he saw along the journey - for buildings, ships, and so on. He mentioned about the political and social condition of his time, including the rumours about the Caliph.
I can even feel the aura of religiosity of that time, how they venerate the hujjaj on the way to and back from Mecca by giving them bread, hugs and kisses - full of love.
However, one strong point of interest to me is when Ibn Jubayr mentioned about the riddah / apostasy, it happened even during his time, though as secluded and rare cases, where the Muslim civilisation meets the West at some territorial boundaries (I forgot which Muslim territory it took place).
September 10, 2023
The book, a famous Arabic travelogue referred to as the Rihla of Ibn Jubayr, describes a visit to Mecca from Granada, Andalucía, going through quite a few other countries, a trip that lasts from 1183 through 1185---a fascinating time in history. The author of this travelogue is cultured and observant. The translation is solid, and the notes abundant albeit slightly dated. In fact, to my knowledge it is the best and most modern English translation in existence.
So why only three stars for the book? I am particularly interested in medieval travel descriptions. I had great hopes for this book, because of its reputation and of the quality of the translation.
It turns out, however, that the author is a bigoted, ultra-religious Almohad supporter (the Almohads are a particularly fanatical Moslem sect of the 12th century that destroyed the world of Convivencia in El-Andalus and the Maghreb), whose primary focus is the religious destinations and ceremonies of the places he goes to and whose observances of other social, geographical and historical issues cover no more than 20% of the text.
I was looking for interesting remarks about the fascinating times the author was living in, where, in most of the places he visits, two or three religions are often present. I did find a few good insights, but the price of having to read through one religious celebration or religious building after another and non-stop prejudiced comments was too high. Everywhere he went he carried his intolerant view of the world, even when the facts he himself describes should have screamed for a little more open-mindedness.
A thoroughly unpleasant person--- a nasty Torquemada without the power. I read every word but regretted the purchase. Much better choices for those interested in the sharp eye of an Arab traveler of the time: the travel books of Ibn Battuta or Ibn Fadlan, or the histories and analyses of Ibn Khaldun.
So why only three stars for the book? I am particularly interested in medieval travel descriptions. I had great hopes for this book, because of its reputation and of the quality of the translation.
It turns out, however, that the author is a bigoted, ultra-religious Almohad supporter (the Almohads are a particularly fanatical Moslem sect of the 12th century that destroyed the world of Convivencia in El-Andalus and the Maghreb), whose primary focus is the religious destinations and ceremonies of the places he goes to and whose observances of other social, geographical and historical issues cover no more than 20% of the text.
I was looking for interesting remarks about the fascinating times the author was living in, where, in most of the places he visits, two or three religions are often present. I did find a few good insights, but the price of having to read through one religious celebration or religious building after another and non-stop prejudiced comments was too high. Everywhere he went he carried his intolerant view of the world, even when the facts he himself describes should have screamed for a little more open-mindedness.
A thoroughly unpleasant person--- a nasty Torquemada without the power. I read every word but regretted the purchase. Much better choices for those interested in the sharp eye of an Arab traveler of the time: the travel books of Ibn Battuta or Ibn Fadlan, or the histories and analyses of Ibn Khaldun.
August 26, 2021
The book is a travel diary of an 11th century Muslim pilgrim from Andalusia to Egypt, Mecca, Medina, Baghdad, Mosul, Damascus, Acre, Sicily and back home. My edition has two maps and sparse but valuable translator notes.
Naturally, as a (relatively rich) pilgrim to holy places, the author obsesses about religious stuff. For a secular reader like me, the ratio of interesting practical information to downright ballast is about 1:3. There are interesting scenes: Alexandria customs (I was so reminded of my first entry to my new country through the JFK airport), pilgrims stampeding at a watering station in the Najd and killing seven people, a similar stampede over a bridge across Eufrates, the author crawling on the lead roof of the Damascus great mosque with a case of vertigo, speculations about the cohabitation of Muslims and Christians near or in the Crusader states, the description of religiously mixed Sicily, the terrifying practicalities of maritime travel.
If you want a travelogue which is much more practically minded, pick up Khusraw's Book of Travels. It is from a similar time, it covers somewhat similar geographical space, it is much shorter, and the stuff that is missing in it in comparison is exactly the endless talk about God doing as He wishes. There is a whole religious chasm between the two authors, but most Western readers certainly do not care nearly as much as the two might have if they met. Of course, the difference between Fatimid Egypt and Saladin Egypt...OK let us stop the review here
Naturally, as a (relatively rich) pilgrim to holy places, the author obsesses about religious stuff. For a secular reader like me, the ratio of interesting practical information to downright ballast is about 1:3. There are interesting scenes: Alexandria customs (I was so reminded of my first entry to my new country through the JFK airport), pilgrims stampeding at a watering station in the Najd and killing seven people, a similar stampede over a bridge across Eufrates, the author crawling on the lead roof of the Damascus great mosque with a case of vertigo, speculations about the cohabitation of Muslims and Christians near or in the Crusader states, the description of religiously mixed Sicily, the terrifying practicalities of maritime travel.
If you want a travelogue which is much more practically minded, pick up Khusraw's Book of Travels. It is from a similar time, it covers somewhat similar geographical space, it is much shorter, and the stuff that is missing in it in comparison is exactly the endless talk about God doing as He wishes. There is a whole religious chasm between the two authors, but most Western readers certainly do not care nearly as much as the two might have if they met. Of course, the difference between Fatimid Egypt and Saladin Egypt...OK let us stop the review here
December 30, 2024
Travels of Ibn Jubayr offers a captivating and lifelike account of a 12th-century Hajji’s journey across the medieval world. Although Ibn Jubayr views much of his travels through a Muslim lens, his insights remain valuable, offering a fascinating glimpse into a world that is both familiar and distant. His time in Sicily, including his encounter with the Norman King William, and his voyages across the Mediterranean, reveal not only the wonders but also the hardships of the time. Ibn Jubayr’s words, while rooted in his own perspective, hold timeless truths that enrich our understanding of medieval travel and culture. A remarkable book that’s both an adventure and a historical treasure—highly recommended for history and travel enthusiasts alike.
February 8, 2023
Another primary source for the 12th century Mediterranean. Some interesting stuff about Christian-Muslim relations and interconfessional boundaries in the Kingdom of Sicily. Ibn Jubayr, unlike Usama b.al-Munqidh, seems more interested in historic and religious sites than in the people (except for the part in Sicily - probably because a number of people there, including the king, could speak Arabic and they had more meaningful exchanges), and his account can get dry in some places, but still quite a valuable source.
March 18, 2025
Detailed account of a hadj in 1180's, with lots of details of places, travels, building descriptions, and meetings of different cultures, the behaviours of people in edgy situations. Written in the first hand of Ibn which makes it more telling than the Marco Polo's travels and an equal of Benajamin Tudela's journal, although this is much better at explaining the wider world, and makes less assumptions of what could be out there, but his eyes have never seen it.
May 13, 2017
Good history and descriptions of activities plus a bit of the unusual... and their understanding at the time.
June 4, 2023
Amazing book, travel back in time.
November 28, 2009
I definitely expected more.
There is a lot I did not like about this book. Two hundred pages in, the whole journey is pretty much a map of where to quench your thirst (which means lots of repetition). When an area is mentioned in detail the description is long winded (this might work well if you are doing a studying on the place). Throughout the journal Ibn Jubayr praises or supplicates God - this would normally be okay but not after every paragraph plus some!
I've given it two stars because here and there I got something interesting out of it.
I wouldn't recommend it to people who have no Islamic knowledge. It could get confusing maybe even annoying with the numerous names mentioned if you don't know their significance, the Islamic laws (some terms are still in their Arabic form), and what isn't part of Islam but some Muslims (that Ibn Jubayr meets) believe in (i.e. superstitious beliefs, etc.).
There is a lot I did not like about this book. Two hundred pages in, the whole journey is pretty much a map of where to quench your thirst (which means lots of repetition). When an area is mentioned in detail the description is long winded (this might work well if you are doing a studying on the place). Throughout the journal Ibn Jubayr praises or supplicates God - this would normally be okay but not after every paragraph plus some!
I've given it two stars because here and there I got something interesting out of it.
I wouldn't recommend it to people who have no Islamic knowledge. It could get confusing maybe even annoying with the numerous names mentioned if you don't know their significance, the Islamic laws (some terms are still in their Arabic form), and what isn't part of Islam but some Muslims (that Ibn Jubayr meets) believe in (i.e. superstitious beliefs, etc.).
October 22, 2015
The travels of Ibn Jubayr are not as exciting as those of Ibn Battuta and this translation isn't very well done, making it a difficult read.
Nonetheless, Ibn Jubayr lived during an important time in history, it was a few decades before Spain fell to the Christians, Saladin was ruling in Egypt, Constantinople was waning, and new powers were arising in the East. Looking back historically, it was a time of foreshadowing before some major events in history.
This is what makes Ibn Jubayr's diary so fascinating. It is a detailed description of the places, buildings, cultures, laws, rituals, and lifestyles of the people living in each country that he visited during his travels, showing us a side of Islamic History that too many people are unfamiliar with.
Nonetheless, Ibn Jubayr lived during an important time in history, it was a few decades before Spain fell to the Christians, Saladin was ruling in Egypt, Constantinople was waning, and new powers were arising in the East. Looking back historically, it was a time of foreshadowing before some major events in history.
This is what makes Ibn Jubayr's diary so fascinating. It is a detailed description of the places, buildings, cultures, laws, rituals, and lifestyles of the people living in each country that he visited during his travels, showing us a side of Islamic History that too many people are unfamiliar with.
October 30, 2025
The Travels of Ibn Jubayr is a remarkable 12th-century travel narrative offering a vivid window into the medieval Islamic world. Written by the Andalusian traveler Ibn Jubayr, it records his pilgrimage to Mecca and journeys through North Africa, the Middle East, and Sicily. His descriptions blend keen observation with personal reflection, capturing religious devotion, political realities, and cultural diversity. The work highlights contrasts between Islamic and Christian lands while providing valuable historical insights. Both a spiritual diary and a cultural record, it remains essential for understanding medieval travel, pilgrimage, and cross-cultural encounters in the Mediterranean world.
April 25, 2015
Sadly there aren't that may old classic travel books from the Middle East - or at least ones that have been translated in to english. Ibn Batuta's work is perhaps the best know travelogue. Surprisingly, Ibn Jubayr work is less know but equally interesting. This is a must read, gives you a glimpse of the Middle East at a time when the crusades were under way and when the Arabs still ruled Spain.
October 6, 2010
This 12c travelogue is a first-person account by a Spanish Muslim who made the journey to Mecca and back. Very interesting read.
December 24, 2014
It's a fun and interesting read. Do not read this as a testament of what everyone from that time and culture felt, but an individual on a journey. He has his own complaints and hang ups.
January 17, 2016
Decent assessment from a travelling Spanish Muslim who visits Outremer and the rest of the Levant.
February 4, 2021
Very informative Book
Anyone can purchase its hard copy from
https://kitaabun.com/shopping3/travel...
Anyone can purchase its hard copy from
https://kitaabun.com/shopping3/travel...
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