Università Roma Tre

BYZANTIUM-CONSTANTINOPLE-ISTANBUL: METROPOLIS AND MYTH BETWEEN EAST AND WEST

The city of Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine Empire, was for over a millennium a landmark for the Mediterranean and Europe, not only politically but also artistically. Its importance did not fade with the end of the Middle Ages: the new capital of the Ottoman Empire made the forms and urban landscape of the Byzantine city its own, transmitting to the present day the myth of the “new Rome” suspended between East and West.
The module aims to deepen the knowledge of the city (as an exceptional case study) in the long run, beyond the conventional chronological limits of the Middle Ages. We will first examine the features of the ancient city, from the foundation of the Greek colony of Byzantium to the Roman era. The Byzantine period (330-1453) will be explored from an urban-monumental point of view, examining its development in detail in a diachronic perspective, also taking into account what is no longer preserved. Finally, the transformations of the “Polis” par excellence after its conquest by the Ottomans will be considered, going as far as the establishment of the Republic of Turkey.
Dealing with different types of sources (archaeological and material evidence, written, graphic and photographic records), we will address specific topics such as building and decoration techniques (sculpture, painting, mosaics), the strategies of re-use, the circulation of craftsmen and models, as well as the reception of the latter “beyond Byzantium”. The teaching method is classroom based, but field trips to museums and/or seminar type activities may be envisaged.

A solid knowledge of the topics covered in class is required, in addition to the study of the following volume:

"Da Bisanzio a Istanbul", a cura di T. Velmans, Milano, Jaca Book 2015 (or previous editions).
The volume is available at the library of the Department of Humanities, Art History section, as well as open access at the following link: https://issuu.com/jacabook3/docs/from_bizantyum_to_istanbul_layout

Further bibliography may be supplied during the course.

Non-attending students:
In addition to the above mentioned text, students who cannot attend the course should supplement their preparation with a bibliography to be agreed with the instructor.