Mud-brick mosques in Niger, Moroccan gateways, the painted dome of al-Aqsa in Jerusalem: All are part of Islamic architectures of the past. Can they also teach us about building for the changing present?

The Caribbean nations are home to nearly 400,000 Muslims. Many of their ancestors were slaves or indentured servants; today they play leading roles in the political, cultural and economic life of their countries.

Since agriculture began, humans have sweepingly reshaped the ecology of the Nile River Valley, and the world's greatest river has shaped human life in turn. The process of interlocking change continues today.

The one scent for tribute and solemn ceremony, frankincense was an essential commodity in ancient times. Now perfumes made with the precious resin are in some of the modern world's brightest shop windows.

"Mistress, teach her a skill," parents asked, and the mu'allema taught their daughters the art of embroidery. Varying richly from town to town, the ancient craft is still cultivated in many parts of North Africa.