This is an in-depth study of the history, ideology, culture and traditions of Islam, discussing the core beliefs, practices and sacred texts central to the religion, and the significance of holy sites, prayer, fasting and pilgrimage. It explores the rich cultural heritage of the Islamic world, with examples of the most spectacular artistic and architectural achievements shown in 1000 photographs. It includes an insightful overview of Islamic faith and teachings, and an exploration of the Quran, both as the revealed word of God and as a religious manuscript. It features a survey of beautiful design and architectural accomplishments, from calligraphy, ceramics and carpets to mosques, bazaars and palaces. It includes maps, fine-art paintings and a guide to the world's greatest museum collections of Islamic art today. This beautifully illustrated book explores the history, philosophy, traditions and teachings of Islam, as well as its exquisite calligraphy, fine-art paintings, ornaments and architecture. The first part explores the history, beliefs and worship practices of Muslim life, and the second part focuses on the rich heritage of art and architecture of the Islamic world, including Quran manuscripts, pottery, tiling, carvings, carpets, costumes, palaces and mosques. Gloriously illustrated with more than 1000 paintings, artworks, maps and photographs, the book offers an excellent overview of a complex religion and its artistic and architectural achievements.