A window to Europe: synthesis of "the western" and "the eastern" in the architecture of Alexandria in the first half of the 20th century

Abstract

The article deals with the architectural environment of Alexandria that existed during the period of European presence in Egypt. The historical prerequisites that led to the cultural dialog between the West and the East in the architectural space of the city are outlined. The main elements of the planning structure and the built environments of the main streets and squares are analyzed. The prevailing styles are identified on the example of some significant works (mansions, tenement houses, public buildings, mosques). Support is provided for the claim that Alexandria was included in the general cultural context of the Mediterranean and maintained close ties with the Arabic artistic traditions. Alexandria’s architecture of the first half of the 20th century is positioned as a significant layer of the country's cultural heritage.

Keywords

• late eclecticism
• neoclassicism
• art deco
• national artistic traditions