Un parfum d’Orient au cœur des villes d’eaux

Abstract

Seaside and spa resorts had a serious weakness for orientalism. In France, this orientalism can be placed within a larger historical context of how Islamic architecture was perceived. It belongs to the rediscovery and redefinition of the Mediterranean myth during the 19th century. During the second half of this century, it was a style that blended well with eclectic tastes. During the first half of the 20th century, architectural references to the Orient came to bear other cultural values. The orientalism became more discreet and evolved towards a style that was more refined and regionalist, seeing itself as an integral part of the Mediterranean world.

Keywords

• La Rochelle
• Arcachon
• Vittel
• villes d’eaux
• Trouville
• Brighton