Out of Antiquity

The “Dead Cities” in Syria and their Islamic Architectural Legacy

October 15, 2024 – December 19, 2024

The “Dead Cities,” a romantic Orientalist name given to a group of over 820 settlements in northwestern Syria, present the most complete classical rural setting in the world. Masterfully carved out of gray limestone and built without cement, many stood in pristine condition until the early 20th century.

This exhibit features detailed drawings by Francesca Liuni for a book by Nasser Rabbat, as well as maps, models by Elshareef Kabbashi, academic books, and photographs, showcasing the widespread influence of the Dead Cities’ architecture on later Islamic structures.