Ibn Battuta

Ibn Battuta was one of the greatest travelers in history. He was born in Tangier, Morocco, in 1304. He traveled across Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe over 30 years. He covered more than 75,000 miles, more than Marco Polo.

Early Life

Ibn Battuta grew up in a family of judges. He studied law and religion. At age 21, he left home to make a pilgrimage to Mecca. He decided to keep traveling and see the world.

A drawing of the great traveler Ibn Battuta on his journeys.
A drawing of the great traveler Ibn Battuta on his journeys. (Léon Benett / Wikimedia Commons)

Big Achievements

Ibn Battuta visited over 40 modern countries during his travels. He went to North Africa, the Middle East, India, China, and Spain. He met sultans and kings along the way. When he returned to Morocco, he dictated a book about his adventures called the Rihla.

Fun Facts

  • Ibn Battuta traveled about 75,000 miles, three times more than Marco Polo.
  • He was robbed by bandits and shipwrecked during his journeys.
  • He served as a judge in the Maldives and India during his travels.

Did You Know?

Ibn Battuta's book, the Rihla, was not well known for centuries. Today, he is considered one of the greatest travelers of all time. A crater on the Moon is named after him.