The Gennadius Library of the American School of Classical Studies at Athens is presenting an exhibition entitled "Ottoman Athens, 1458-1833", from February 10 to June 30, 2015.
The main concept is to explore the topography, archaeology and history of Ottoman Athens showcasing travelers’ books, works of art, and topographical renderings from the Gennadius collections as well as archaeological finds from the excavations of the Ancient Agora.
The exhibition showcases the Ottoman period collections of the Gennadeion by exploring several themes about the everyday life of the inhabitants of Ottoman Athens and the interest of the visitors in the antiquities of this land. It also highlightes the significance of the excavations at the Athenian Agora, which revealed the remains of the Classical-Roman-Byzantine and Ottoman city. The exhibition explores the relationship of people of the early modern period with the city of Athens juxtaposing the remains of its classical past with the customs and lifestyles of the Ottoman period; it investigates the impact of the past on the negotiation of people’s identities in later periods.
The opening of the exhibition, on February 10, was celebrated with a lecture by John McK Camp II, Director of the Athenian Agora Excavations, ASCSA, and Stavros Niarchos Foundation Professor of Classics, Randolph-Macon College, entitled "Dodwell and Ottoman Athens, 1805".
The exhibition extends beyond the confines of the Gennadius Library with the participation of the Museum of the City of Athens - Vouros-Eutaxias Foundation (Tsoutsou Hall) and the Benaki Museum (Main Building, Koumpari street, Hall 23).
A colloquium entitled "The Topography of Ottoman Athens. Archaeology and Travel" will take place on April 23 and 24.
To view the program, click HERE
To view the Brochure please click HERE
Source: The American School of Classical Studies at Athens [April 08, 2015]