Domes in the central Mediterranean. Geometric syncretism and cultural hybridizations

Abstract

This paper presents a research on geometric, symbolic and formal hybridizations between the different cultures of the Mediterranean. In particular, it focuses on some religious architecture in this area, the geographical centre of a wide cultural universe. In this area there is a synthesis between different visions and spiritual aspirations.The studies on the religious and cosmological symbolism of René Guenon, Mircea Eliade, Renzo Manetti and others, highlight recurring geometric and symbolic elements: the square and the cube are expression of the substantiality of the earth; the circle and the sphere symbolize the celestial transcendence; the octagon denotes mediation and relationship between immanent and transcendent. Later, they will be joined by the symbol, par excellence, of Christianity: the cross. These geometric shapes will be the foundation of religious architecture which, between Islam and Christianity, expressed a common spiritual aspiration, in different and often syncretic ways.The research develops in various steps:Identification and classification according to chronological and morphological characteristics and in relation to the prevailing architectural influences.Survey with instrumental (laser scanner) and photogrammetric (terrestrial and drone shooting) methods.Insights and analysis that highlight geometric matrices and spatial conformations, for the development of a formal and symbolic vocabulary of Mediterranean architectural hybridizations.DOI: https://doi.org/10.20365/disegnarecon.25.2020.10

Keywords

• domes
• geometric symbolism
• cultural hybridizations
• islamic architecture
• byzantine architecture.