This morning we were out at one of the bombed out palaces. It's really quite scenic, although it doesn't sound that way. I wish I could share more pictures, but as you can probably understand, it's a bit difficult. There are water features and trees, walkways and birds, and at the center: a monstrously elaborate building with a lofty cupola, and dome after dome after dome.
As I was taking in the view, I was thinking about how strange it is to see such extravagant architecture in a "contemporary" building. I mean, in the other countries in the region that we've been to, it seems the vast majority of stylistically ornate buildings are from centuries ago. Amazing and inspiring, and often vestiges of the past. The buildings from the 20th century tend to be more functional, bureaucratic, modern. Yes, many newer mosques are frequently intricately decorated, but with modern lines and features.
There was something else going on here, and I wondered if it wasn't an indication of a larger societal ill... Like: a city with an immense library or museum, or university, or house of representatives... that makes sense to me. Celebrate public works. Make a gorgeous mosque the centerpiece of a city.
Sure, important people get to live in important houses - especially if they have historical value. But.... these crazy palaces.... built pretty recently.... intensely elaborate, with "classical" materials and techniques......all over the city.... and while the citizens got..... got what?!
The sight left me rather disturbed. Still thinking about it 14 hours later...
As I was taking in the view, I was thinking about how strange it is to see such extravagant architecture in a "contemporary" building. I mean, in the other countries in the region that we've been to, it seems the vast majority of stylistically ornate buildings are from centuries ago. Amazing and inspiring, and often vestiges of the past. The buildings from the 20th century tend to be more functional, bureaucratic, modern. Yes, many newer mosques are frequently intricately decorated, but with modern lines and features.
There was something else going on here, and I wondered if it wasn't an indication of a larger societal ill... Like: a city with an immense library or museum, or university, or house of representatives... that makes sense to me. Celebrate public works. Make a gorgeous mosque the centerpiece of a city.
Sure, important people get to live in important houses - especially if they have historical value. But.... these crazy palaces.... built pretty recently.... intensely elaborate, with "classical" materials and techniques......all over the city.... and while the citizens got..... got what?!
The sight left me rather disturbed. Still thinking about it 14 hours later...
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