Gardizi

Gardizi (Persian: گردیزی) was a 11th-century Persian geographer and historian. He is best known for his work, Zayn al-Akhbar (The Ornament of Histories), a comprehensive history and geography of the world as known to him.

Zayn al-Akhbar provides valuable insights into the history, culture, and geography of Central Asia, Persia, India, and Eastern Europe. It covers a wide range of topics, including the histories of various dynasties, religious practices, customs, and geographical descriptions of different regions. The work is particularly important for its information on the Turkic peoples and their interactions with the Persian world.

Little is known about Gardizi's personal life. His work suggests he was likely associated with the Ghaznavid court, as his history contains considerable information about the Ghaznavid dynasty and its conquests. The exact dates of his birth and death are unknown. The manuscript is a vital primary source for understanding the political and social landscape of the 11th century.