What is the origin of guitar? Is it derived from "Veena" Indian musical instrument?

The guitar's origin is complex, with influences from various cultures. While the veena, an ancient Indian stringed instrument, shares similarities with the guitar, it's not a direct ancestor. The guitar's evolution: 1. Ancient Greece and Rome: The kithara (Greece) and cithara (Rome) were lyre-like instruments with four strings. 2. Persia (modern-day Iran): The tar and setar, Persian stringed instruments, influenced Middle Eastern and European music. 3. Spain and Moorish Influence (8th-15th centuries): The Arabic lute, called "al-ud," introduced to Spain by Moors, merged with European instruments. 4. Renaissance Europe (16th-17th centuries): The vihuela and lute evolved into the guitarra latina and guitarra morisca. 5. Baroque and Classical periods (18th-19th centuries): The modern guitarra española emerged. Influences from India: 1. The veena's arrival in Europe: During the Renaissance, European travelers and traders encountered Indian music and instruments, including the veena. 2. Similarities: The veena's neck, body shape, and string configuration share similarities with early guitar-like instruments. However, there's no direct evidence linking the guitar's origin to the veena. The guitar's development was shaped by various cultural influences, primarily Mediterranean and Middle Eastern. Key differences between veena and guitar: 1. Tuning and playing style 2. Number and type of strings 3. Body shape and construction 4. Soundbox and resonance While the veena contributed to the rich tapestry of global musical influences, the guitar's origin is a unique blend of Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and European traditions. read less