From the Holy Mountain

Set against the backdrop of the Byzantine world in 587 A.D., the narrative follows two monks, John Moschos and his pupil Sophronius, as they embark on a transformative journey across diverse landscapes. They gather wisdom from ascetic figures while witnessing the looming upheaval caused by the rise of Islam. In a modern parallel, William Dalrymple retraces their steps, using Moschos's writings as a guide, creating a poignant reflection on a civilization in decline. This intertwining of past and present offers profound insights into cultural and spiritual legacies.