The Safar Namih (travel journal) of the Persian Nasir Khusrau (A.D. 1003-1072?) translated into English : with an introd. and notes

Like so many other Persian prose masterpieces, the Safar Namih [Travel Journal] (A.D. 1056) of the enthusiastic Persian poet-traveler Nasir Khusrau (A.D. 1003-l072?) has until now remained unknown to English readers. In the whole galaxy of Persian poets and writers, Nasir Khusrau is indeed one of the brightest stars and one who has always fascinated both Persian and Western critics. The narrative of his travels provides a fascinating account of Nair's journey from Balkh to Cairo via Jerusalem and the return home through Mecca, Bara, and the province of Fars (A.D. 1045-10s2). In the pages of the Travel Journal the reader will find descriptions of seas, islands, and deserts, of irrigation and commerce, and of the nature and customs of the people of the East. Thus it seemed worthwhile to translate this undoubtedly important work into English.

In order to provide sufficient background about the social, political, and religious milieu of Nasir's days as well as the convictions of the author himself, the translation is accompanied with an introduction and notes. Further, to assist the reader in the identification of the places visited by Nasir a map of his route and several illustrations are included.