The History of Islam told by its Great Buildings - six online talks by Dr Peter Webb

Islamic cultures have created some of the world’s most iconic buildings. From the Alhambra to the Taj Mahal, the wide arc of Islamic lands is built upon architectural splendour made by some of the grandest patrons in world history. Beautiful to behold, the buildings also reflect the richness of the cultures that produced them, and the story of the Islamic world, its history, beliefs and peoples can all be read from the buildings that Muslims have constructed. This series will reveal the history of Islam through a tour of its greatest buildings, beginning at the origins between Mecca and Jerusalem and reaching the edges of the Atlantic and Indian oceans to meet the civilisations that created the architectural masterpieces of the 17th century. We explore the rise of the Caliphate, the progression of empires and the essence of Shi’ite and Sunni differences. From visiting the most impressive constructions from Spain to India, we will encounter the different forms of belief and the variety of peoples who joined the faith, shaping how Islamic civilisation is known to the world.

The talks take place every Monday and Wednesday from 10th–26th February 2025 at 4.30pm (London) and, including Q&A, will last just under an hour. They are available for viewing for eight weeks after the last episode is streamed (23rd April 2025).