11th-Century Astrolabe Unveils Shared Islamic and Jewish Scientific Heritage

A rare astrolabe discovered in Verona, Italy, showcases the collaborative efforts of Islamic and Jewish scholars in the 11th century, marking a significant historical intersection of science and culture.

The astrolabe, found in Verona, Italy, was initially constructed in Andalucía and has passed through Muslim, Jewish, and Christian hands over the centuries.
Engravings in Arabic and Hebrew on the astrolabe reveal a history of scientific collaboration between Islamic and Jewish scholars in al-Andalus.
The instrument's journey from Spain to North Africa and eventually to Italy illustrates the widespread exchange of knowledge across cultures.
Federica Gigante, a historian at Cambridge University, discovered the astrolabe's significance, highlighting its role as a tangible proof of intercultural scientific exchange.
The astrolabe's engravings, including those in western numerals by an Italian or Latin speaker, indicate its use and adaptation by multiple cultures over time.