Ibn Battuta was a famous 14th-century Moroccan explorer and scholar renowned for his extensive travels across the Islamic world and beyond. Born in 1304 in Tangier, Morocco, his full name was Abu Abdullah Muhammad Ibn Battuta. The name "Ibn Battuta" means "son of Battuta," referring to his family name, although little is known about his ancestors.
Ibn Battuta embarked on his travels at the age of 21, initially intending to complete the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. However, his journey expanded into a 30-year odyssey, during which he visited vast regions, including North Africa, the Middle East, Central Asia, India, China, and even parts of sub-Saharan Africa. His travel account, Rihla (The Journey), provides one of the most detailed records of medieval life in the regions he visited.
His writings remain an invaluable historical source, offering insights into the culture, politics, and geography of the 14th-century world. Ibn Battuta's adventures have earned him the title of one of history's greatest travellers.
