The Eagle's Nest: Ismaili Castles in Iran and Syria

by Peter Willey

Magnificent castles and fortresses in remote, mountainous regions were built for refuge and defensive purposes by the Ismaili Muslims of Iran and Syria fleeing from persecution during the early middle ages. Often superior in construction to those built by the Crusaders, these castles withstood numerous offensives for over two centuries until the middle of the thirteenth century when most were captured and demolished by the Mongols. Peter Willey describes the discoveries he made during the course of more than 20 expeditions to these Ismaili sites spanning the past forty years. The book is illustrated with photographs, maps and plans. As well as being a piece of original scholarship, it is also a readable personal account of the challenges encountered in expeditions to remote, inaccessible and often hazardous locations.

Genres: Nonfiction, History

256 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2005

Reviews

[Parsa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not entirely academic and boring read. peter Willey has added a human element to it by expressing his view and experiences in his travels and research which makes it readable for general public. Still, this book managed to enlighten me in many ways. I have been fascinated with castles [generally] and medieval times always but I havent known much about them so I am glad I picked up this book and got enlightened about, at least, Ismaili castles.

Since I knew much of the history of the time period, it was easier for me. Though the starting part which provides a history would be helpful to everyone to understand the importance of that time period and castles.

[Ubaid · Rating 5 out of 5]

As Peter Willey quotes, Faith and truth should be the keystones of our lives. Which I believe he has done a remarkable research about all the great fortresses of the Ismailis. I had really a perfect time with the "Eagle's Nest".

[Scott · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found Willey's book a very engaging source for my project of locating interesting places in Iran. As war drums rumbled louder in the spring of 2012, I sought to turn my love of maps into a vehicle for letting people know there's more to Iran than the narrow stereotype presented by the news.

I began by tracing the route of the Silk Route across northern Iran, but soon found myself hunting down every mention of a castle. How wonderful! How many Americans know that Iran is dotted with castles?

Willey's book was hugely helpful, as he presented a first-account of his various visits and explorations with enough detail to enable me to pinpoint them in Google Earth.

I learned a lot about the misunderstood Ismaili branch of Islam along the way.

And it's been heart-wrenching to wonder about people who live in the vicinity of Ismaili castles in the mountains of Syria, as that country has suffered so mightily. I believe that one of the castles may have even been targeted by government mortar attacks at one point.