The architectural and iconographic identity of Paliochora on Aegina :
General Material Designation
[Thesis]
First Statement of Responsibility
Karachaliou, Ermioni
Title Proper by Another Author
an introduction to its Late and Post Byzantine churches
Subsequent Statement of Responsibility
O'Connor, David; Loosley, Emma
.PUBLICATION, DISTRIBUTION, ETC
Name of Publisher, Distributor, etc.
University of Manchester
Date of Publication, Distribution, etc.
2012
DISSERTATION (THESIS) NOTE
Dissertation or thesis details and type of degree
Ph.D.
Body granting the degree
University of Manchester
Text preceding or following the note
2012
SUMMARY OR ABSTRACT
Text of Note
How can we approach the surviving evidence on Paliochora in order for it to become a site of cultural consciousness in a wider medieval context? Its architectural and iconographic identity is hidden in its thirty-four Late and Post Byzantine churches. This thesis constitutes the first complete interdisciplinary approach to this settlement accompanied by a detailed appendix in the second volume. The two parts of this study examine Paliochora through different perspectives which reveal different aspects of its character. Urban planning and individual architectural specificities are examined through the prism of four construction periods associated with political and economic factors. Structural variety and multiplicity raises questions concerning religious functions. The iconography, on the other hand, relies on the general Late Byzantine canons and influences, but demonstrates provincial tendencies and promotes a distinct style of fresco painting. Furthermore, the possible interference of the continuous Western presence creates new aspects for conceptual discussion in both fields. Consequently the three parameters of this comparative approach are underlined, either on an architectural or iconographic level: • Between the different examples in Paliochora • Within the vast array of Greek and Mediterranean ecclesiastical examples • In contrast to Western practices and models. Throughout the text problems of archaeological evidence and archival information are raised. However, this first effort to place and contextualise Paliochora on the map of existing late medieval cities of the Mediterranean is a call for further research in multiple disciplines. It is a survey which will be used as the basic material for any future actions related both to academic knowledge and restoration processes.