In A.D. 762, Baghdad became the capital of a vast Islamic empire ruled by the Abbasid dynasty. It was built in a perfect circle on Babylonian ruins and became the world's center for culture and education, ushering in the "Golden Islamic Age." During their rule, the Abbasids built the "House of Wisdom" as well as beautiful buildings and fountains. Reflecting the high value they placed on knowledge, they stressed that "the ink of the scholar is more holy than the blood of a martyr.' #Quotes