Astrolabes have always fascinated me, especially when I think of their intricate designs and functionality. Navigators in ancient times relied on these devices to map out the stars in the sky accurately, helping them determine their location. The history of astrolabes dates back to 220BC, but a recent discovery of one with both Hebrew and Arabic markings has shed new light on their fascinating origins.

The astrolabe in question was found to have originated in the 11th Century and was recently stumbled upon by historian Dr Federica Gigante from Christ’s College, Cambridge. The discovery was made when Dr Gigante came across an image of the astrolabe on the website of Fondazione Museo Minisccalchi-Erizzo in Verona. Intrigued by the device, she published an article in Nuncius, the Journal of the Material and Visual History of Science, detailing her findings.

Upon closer inspection of the astrolabe, Dr Gigante observed that it had undergone several modifications over the centuries, with contributions from Muslim, Jewish, and Christian sky watchers from Spain, North Africa, and Italy. The device featured beautifully engraved Arabic inscriptions, along with faint inscriptions in Hebrew, suggesting a rich history of cultural exchange and adaptation.

The astrolabe’s ‘rete’, a pierced disk representing a map of the sky, revealed that it was one of the earliest astrolabes made in Spain in the late 11th Century. Dr Gigante’s expertise in Islamic scientific instruments allowed her to draw parallels between the engravings on the astrolabe and those found in Muslim-ruled Spain, particularly in Al-Andalus.

Further examination of the astrolabe uncovered Jewish names in Arabic script, indicating its use within the Sephardi Jewish community where Arabic was the predominant language. Additional inscriptions suggested its later use in North Africa, possibly in Morocco or Egypt, before making its way to Italy, where it was likely utilized by the Jewish Diaspora community.

The astrolabe’s journey through different communities and regions highlights the interconnectedness of cultures and the role of scientific instruments in facilitating cultural exchange. From its origins in Spain to its eventual place in the collection of Ludovico Moscardo in Verona, the astrolabe has passed through various hands, each adding to its rich history.

The discovery of this rare astrolabe not only provides insight into ancient navigation techniques but also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of scientific collaboration across different civilizations. The device, now on display in a museum, stands as a symbol of the diverse cultural influences that have shaped our understanding of the universe.

Source: Rare astrolabe discovered in Verona reveals scientific exchange