Eastern Europe
Barbarians of the North
“They never go off alone to relieve themselves, but always with three companions to guard them, sword in hand, for they have little trust in one another.” […]
Ibn
Eastern Europe
How Foreigners Get Clean
“The steam released warms the room and the inhabitants take off their clothes and live in this shelter till spring.” […]
Orient
Gates to the Unknown
“One of them climbs a ladder, which is leaning against the door, and when he reaches the tops step, he strikes the bolt with his hammer. Then, if one applies one’s ear to the door, one hears a muted sound like a nest of wasps. Then everything falls silent again.” […]
Eastern Europe
The Life of a Giant
“In that city the qadi Ya’qub ibn Nu’man informed me that this woman, so exceedingly tall, had killed her husband, who was named Adam and was one of the strongest men in the country. Clasping him to her bosom, she broke his ribs, killing him instantly.” […]