House of Knowledge facts for kids
The House of Knowledge (called Dār al-ʿIlm in Arabic) was a very important center for learning in Cairo, Egypt. It was built in the year 1004 CE by the Fatimid rulers.
At first, it was a huge library filled with books. But in the same year it opened, the Fatimid ruler, al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah, turned it into a state university. This meant it became a place where people could study many different subjects, not just read books.
A Place for Learning and Books
The Fatimid rulers loved knowledge and learning. They followed a long tradition in Islam of collecting books and encouraging study. The House of Knowledge quickly became famous. Scholars and students from all over the world were drawn to its amazing collection of books.
The ruler al-Hakim was a big supporter of learning. He made sure that anyone who wanted to study at the House of Knowledge had everything they needed. He provided paper, pens, ink, and even inkstands for free! This made it easy for many people to come and learn.
What Was Studied There?
The House of Knowledge was like a modern university. People could study many different subjects. These included:
- Religion and Islamic law
- Medicine
- Astronomy (the study of stars and planets)
- Mathematics
- Philosophy
- History
- Languages
It was a place where new ideas were discussed and new discoveries were made. It helped spread knowledge throughout the world during that time.
See also
