This course investigates the Mediterranean as a site of contact from Christian Antiquity to the rise of the Ottoman Empire. Through the study of Italian cities such as Venice, Palermo, and Pisa, we will uncover the shared visual and architectural cultures that connect peninsular urban spaces to cities like Istanbul, Alexandria, and Jerusalem. In creating an open dialogue between distant geographic sites we will have the opportunity to engage Christian, Jewish, and Islamic art histories, comparing the structures of synagogues, churches, and mosques, to palaces and piazzas. While emphasis will be placed on medieval and early modern contexts, modern and contemporary responses to the themes of modern Mediterranean Identity and immigration will play a crucial role in our investigation.
This course has an associated course fee. See the Course Fees webpage for more information.
Department: History of Art
Location: Florence
Semesters: Fall, Spring
Credits: 3