History of Islamic Tiles

In this episode, we explore the history of Islamic tiles and the remarkable artistic traditions that transformed architecture across the Islamic world and beyond. Focusing on zellij, the intricate mosaic technique created from hand-chiseled glazed tiles, we trace the development of geometric decoration from the western Islamic world to its lasting prominence in Morocco. We also examine the mathematical sophistication behind Islamic tilework, including the use of girih tiles to produce complex and sometimes non-repeating patterns, as well as the influence of these designs on Spanish architecture and modern mathematical research. Through centuries of craftsmanship and cultural exchange, Islamic tiles reveal a powerful connection between art, geometry, tradition, and innovation.