Steeding from the Saracens: How Islamic Architecture Shaped Europe

Diana Darke's "Stealing from the Saracens" meticulously details the significant yet often overlooked contributions of Islamic architecture to the development of European styles.

The book challenges conventional narratives by presenting compelling evidence of the transfer of architectural techniques, designs, and craftsmanship from the Islamic world to Europe.

Darke's research reveals a complex interplay of cultural exchange and adaptation, demonstrating how Islamic innovations influenced the evolution of Romanesque and Gothic architecture.

The book is richly illustrated with images that support her arguments, making it accessible to both specialists and general readers.

It serves as a crucial corrective to Eurocentric historical accounts, offering a more nuanced and accurate understanding of architectural history.