Military borders, political frontiers: settling the Portuguese urban space in North Africa

Portuguese urban expansion in North Africa, spanning from 1415 to 1769, was characterized by the conquest and integration of pre-existing Arab and Muslim cities along the Strait of Gibraltar and Atlantic coasts. Unlike traditional colonial models, these territories were ruled directly by the Portuguese Crown through local captains and governors, with limited hinterland influence beyond city walls. The study reveals a strategic shift in military and political strategies, transitioning from late-medieval to early-modern conceptions around 1500. It highlights two key regions: the northern 'overseas Gharb,' including Ceuta, Ksar Seghir, Asilah, and Tangier, where Portuguese influence was intermittent; and southern cities like Azemmour and Safi, established as suzerainties to block Marrakesh's access to seaports. The research approach combines historiographical analysis with spatial and political mapping to elucidate the complexities of Portuguese territorial control in North Africa.

CORREIA, J. (2020). Military borders, political frontiers: settling the Portuguese urban space in North Africa [JD]. Studi e ricerche di Storia dell’architettura, 7(anno 4), 28–45. https://doi.org/10.17401/studiericerche.7.2020-correia