Vathek

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Vathek, the ninth Caliph of the Abassides, was the son of Motassem and grandson of Haroun Al Raschid. His early accession to the throne and impressive talents led his subjects to expect a long and prosperous reign. While he possessed a pleasing and majestic appearance, his anger could transform his gaze into something terrifying, causing those who met it to fall back in fear, sometimes even to their demise. To avoid depopulating his realm, he rarely succumbed to rage. Vathek was known for his indulgence in women and lavish feasts, using his affability and boundless generosity to attract companions. Unlike Caliph Omar Ben Abdalaziz, he did not believe in sacrificing earthly pleasures for the promise of Paradise. His magnificence surpassed that of his predecessors; he expanded the palace of Alkoremmi, originally built by his father, by adding five wings or additional palaces dedicated to satisfying his senses. One such palace, named “The Eternal or Unsatiating Banquet,” featured tables perpetually laden with exquisite delicacies, with the finest wines and cordials flowing endlessly from numerous fountains, ensuring that the pleasures of the table were never in short supply.