The Travels of Leo Africanus, 1507-1520

Illustration

Simeon Netchev
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published on 22 November 2024
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The Travels of Leo Africanus, 1507-1520 Download Full Size Image

This map illustrates North and Sub-Saharan Africa during the 16th century, as described by Johannes Leo Africanus (born al-Hasan ibn Muhammad al-Wazzan al-Fasi, c. 1494–c. 1554) in his 1526 book Cosmographia et Geographia de Africa. This work became widely known as Descrittione dell'Africa (Description of Africa) after its 1550 publication by Giovanni Ramusio. Combining vivid personal observations with secondhand knowledge, the book provides detailed accounts of the region's geography, cultures, and political structures, offering Renaissance Europeans an unprecedented glimpse into Africa. Leo’s unique perspective reflects his dual identity, shaped by his Islamic upbringing and later life as a Christian convert under Pope Leo X.

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About the Author

Simeon Netchev
Simeon is a freelance visual designer and history teacher passionate about the human stories behind past events. He believes every image should tell a story and spark interaction, while each map leads on a journey, blending imagination with education.

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APA Style

Netchev, S. (2024, November 22). The Travels of Leo Africanus, 1507-1520. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/image/19706/the-travels-of-leo-africanus-1507-1520/

Chicago Style

Netchev, Simeon. "The Travels of Leo Africanus, 1507-1520." World History Encyclopedia. Last modified November 22, 2024. https://www.worldhistory.org/image/19706/the-travels-of-leo-africanus-1507-1520/.

MLA Style

Netchev, Simeon. "The Travels of Leo Africanus, 1507-1520." World History Encyclopedia. World History Encyclopedia, 22 Nov 2024. Web. 22 Feb 2025.

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