Mirabilia descripta: The wonders of the East

"Mirabilia descripta: The Wonders of the East" by Catalani Jordanus is a captivating travelogue recounting the author's journeys through India and neighboring lands in the 1300s. The narrative combines real-life experiences with unbelievable stories, showcasing the author's beliefs and medieval views of faraway places. Jourdanus’ experiences in various cultures and natural sites and unique wonders invite the reader to see the world through the eyes of a missionary from the 14th century. At the beginning, the author creates a mood of amazement as he discusses the incredible things he saw on his trip. He tells stories about a giant swirl of water between Sicily and Calabria, shares what he knows about the stories of Armenia, and talks about the animals and people of Persia and their strange ways. His stories mix made-up things, like cats with wings and giant snakes, alongside real facts about places and people and customs, showing that he was a good observer but also believed in the magical appeal of the East during that time.