alBuldan

alBuldan is a term that historically referred to the known world or a collection of countries, particularly within the context of early Islamic geography and cartography. It derives from the Arabic word "bilad," meaning land or country, and its plural form "buldan." Early Muslim geographers, scholars, and travelers used this term to delineate and describe the various regions and kingdoms they were aware of, often incorporating detailed accounts of their geography, peoples, cultures, and political structures.

The concept of alBuldan was central to the development of Islamic geography, which flourished from the 9th to the 15th centuries. Scholars like Ibn Khordadbeh, Al-Yaqubi, Al-Masudi, and Al-Idrisi meticulously documented the known world, compiling encyclopedic works that served as vital sources of information for subsequent generations. These works often included detailed maps and descriptions of trade routes, cities, and administrative divisions. The understanding of alBuldan was not static; it evolved as travelers ventured further and new discoveries were made, expanding the perceived boundaries of the world. The term reflects a systematic effort to catalog and comprehend the diverse lands and societies that constituted the known world during a significant period of intellectual and exploratory activity.