Leo Africanus by Amin Maalouf
This historical novel follows the life of a real-life Andalusian-born traveler of the 16th century, who is captured by Christian pirates and presented as a gift to the Pope. Renamed after the pontiff, he becomes a respected scholar and diplomat, navigating the complex cultural and religious divides of the Mediterranean world. Throughout his journeys, which take him from his birthplace in Granada to Fez, Timbuktu, Constantinople, and Rome, he witnesses the tumultuous events of his time, including the fall of Granada and the rise of the Ottoman Empire. His story is one of identity, belonging, and the universal quest for knowledge and understanding amidst a backdrop of conflict and change.
The 6166th greatest book of all time
- Published
- 1986
- Nationality
- French
- Type
- Fiction
- Pages
- 350-400
- Words
- Unknown
- Original Language
- French
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This book is on the following lists:
- 297th on The 500 best books of all time from Culture Café users (Culture Café)