Books Should Be Free
Loyal Books
Free Public Domain Audiobooks & eBook Downloads
Search by: Title, Author or Keyword

The Itinerary of Benjamin of Tudela   By:

Book cover

The Itinerary of Benjamin of Tudela offers a remarkable glimpse into the world of the 12th century through the eyes of Benjamin, a Jewish traveler and chronicler. Despite the lack of a title, this ancient travelogue provides an invaluable record of the diverse cultures and communities that Benjamin encountered during his extensive journey across Europe, Asia, and Africa.

One notable aspect of this book is its meticulous attention to detail. Benjamin meticulously documents the geography, history, and customs of the places he visited, providing readers with a vivid picture of the medieval world. His observations about the architecture, religious practices, and socio-political dynamics of various cities and regions are particularly enlightening and offer valuable insights into the everyday life of the time.

Furthermore, Benjamin's accounts are infused with a deep sense of curiosity and tolerance. As a Jewish traveler, he interacted with different communities and religions along his journey, and this unique perspective adds another layer of richness to his descriptions. Through his words, we witness the coexistence of Jews, Muslims, and Christians in medieval society, as well as the cultural exchanges and influences that shaped these communities.

The Itinerary also sheds light on the flourishing trade routes of the time, illustrating the interconnectedness of distant lands. Benjamin's encounters with merchants and his observations on the economic activities of various cities provide a glimpse into the global commerce of the Middle Ages. Moreover, his travels serve as a testament to the courage and resilience required of a medieval traveler, facing both physical challenges and cultural differences.

While the book may lack a catchy title, its content perpetuates the spirit of curiosity and discovery that marked the age of exploration. Benjamin's historical account remains important not only for scholars and historians but also for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of our shared past. From its rich descriptions of distant lands to its portrayal of different religious communities, The Itinerary of Benjamin of Tudela is a captivating window into a long-gone era that should not be overlooked.

First Page:

THE ITINERARY OF BENJAMIN OF TUDELA

CRITICAL TEXT, TRANSLATION AND COMMENTARY BY MARCUS NATHAN ADLER, M.A.

PHILIPP FELDHEIM, INC THE HOUSE OF THE JEWISH BOOK NEW YORK

FIRST EDITION: LONDON 1907

published by PHILIPP FELDHEIM, Inc. 96 East Broadway New York, N.Y.10002

PRINTED IN JERUSALEM ISRAEL BY S. MONSON

DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF MORITZ STEINSCHNEIDER

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Map showing Benjamin's route ... to face title page

INTRODUCTION

I. Islam in the Middle Ages

II. The Object of Benjamin's Journey

III. Bibliography ... xiii

THE ITINERARY

Translation of Hebrew Introduction

EUROPE .

Saragossa, Barcelona, Narbonne

Beziers, Montpellier, Lunel

Posquières, Bourg de St. Gilles, Arles, Marseilles

Genoa, Pisa, Lucca

Rome.

Naples, Sorrento, Salerno

Amalfi, Benevento, Melfi, Ascoli, Trani, Taranto, Brindisi

Corfu, Arta, Patras, Lepanto, Crissa, Corinth, Thebes

Wallachia, Armylo, Vissena, Salonica, Abydos.

Constantinople

Rhaedestus, Gallipoli, Chios, Samos, Rhodes

ASIA .

Cyprus, Curicus, Malmistras, Antioch

Antioch, Ladikiya, Gebela, the Hashishim

Kadmus, Tarabulus (Tripolis), Gubail (Byblus)

Beirut, Sidon, the Druses, Tyre

Acre, Haifa, Carmel... Continue reading book >>




eBook Downloads
ePUB eBook
• iBooks for iPhone and iPad
• Nook
• Sony Reader
Kindle eBook
• Mobi file format for Kindle
Read eBook
• Load eBook in browser
Text File eBook
• Computers
• Windows
• Mac

Review this book



Popular Genres
More Genres
Languages
Paid Books