River boats of Baghdad (132-232 AH / 749-848 AD)

Abstract

The article discusses riverboats during the early Abbasid period, beginning with an exploration of the significance of selecting Baghdad's location along the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. This strategic placement endowed the city with substantial advantages. The article highlights the vibrant commercial activity facilitated by these rivers, both domestically and internationally, as they served as vital connections between cities, particularly those situated along the riverbanks.

The primary focus of the article is on the riverboats of Baghdad, examining the Abbasid caliphs' interest in their construction, the variety of names and forms they adopted, and their diverse uses. These vessels functioned as river transport for various purposes: private transport for caliphs and princes to conduct affairs, for leisure, or as a display of opulence; public transport for moving people and goods between cities; facilitating trade; or serving military purposes, such as in their wars against the Zanj, as well as recreational activities.