'Peeping under the palimpsest: Reclaiming the urban topography of Byzantine Constantinople'

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A recent publication on late antique and medieval urbanism titled ‘Cities as palimpsests?’ draws attention to the multi-layered nature of ancient cities and the nuanced perspectives which are offered for the study of evolving urbanism. But how far is this engaging metaphor relevant for understanding the city beneath our feet and as a contribution to comprehending past lifeways? By reviewing past and contemporary approaches and methodologies I aim to consider the contribution of previous observations and excavations for the topography and infrastructure of the city, with particular attention to the Byzantine remains enclosed within the circuit wall of the Topkapı Saray, the city’s first hill. 

Speaker: Professor Jim Crow, University of Edinburgh

Respondent: Dr Galina Fingarova, University of Vienna

Professor Jim Crow

Professor Crow's staff profile