The astrolabe with Arabic and Hebrew inscriptions was discovered at an Italian museum where its historical importance had been overlooked for decades. “When I visited the museum and studied the astrolabe up close, I noticed that not only was it covered in beautifully engraved Arabic inscriptions but that I could see faint inscriptions in Hebrew. Close-up of the Verona astrolabe showing Hebrew inscribed (top left) above Arabic inscriptions. The Verona astrolabe example features Muslim prayer lines and prayer names, arranged to ensure that its original users performed their daily prayers on time. A close-up of the Verona astrolabe showing inscribed Hebrew, Arabic and Western numerals.

Source: The North Africa Journal March 04, 2024 13:46 UTC