Summary
A comprehensive analysis of Islamic palatial architecture around the Mediterranean, from Algiers to Baghdad, reveals that many grand structures—particularly those dating from the 17th to 19th centuries—were shaped by Western perceptions and influences. The study focuses on civil architecture, excluding religious sites, and highlights how these palaces in cities like Medina Azahara (Madinat al-Zahra) reflect a blend of local traditions and external aesthetic trends. By examining textual and visual sources, the research offers new insights into the interplay between Islamic architectural innovation and Western artistic sensibilities during this period.
Citation
Greenhalgh, M. (2026). Endnotes: Islamic Architecture through Western Eyes: Palaces around the Mediterranean. Volume 3. Brill Online. https://doi.org/10.6084/M9.FIGSHARE.31406853