In a significant cultural event, the newly restored Ahmed Bey Palace in Tunisia has hosted the Italianisances exhibition, which showcases the Italian influence on Tunisian architecture. The exhibition, which initially opened in the coastal city of La Marsa before moving to Tunis, highlights the lasting impact of Italian architectural and decorative styles on the country’s buildings.
According to architect Houssam Eddine Othmani, the exhibition aims to emphasize the architectural and decorative influences of the Italian community, which was present in Tunisia from the 16th to the 20th century. Historian Ahmed Al-Saadawi notes that the geographical and historical proximity of Tunisia to Italy is a primary reason for this influence.
The Ahmed Bey Palace, built in 1847, is a testament to Italian architectural influence and serves as a symbolic first venue for the exhibition. The event features various aspects of Tunisian architecture, including mosques, beylical palaces, and rural homes in the Medjerda valley. Notable examples of Italian influence can be seen in palaces such as the Bardo Palace, which boasts a Rococo-style Italian hall, and mosques like the Sabaghine Mosque and Hamouda Mosque, which exhibit Baroque elements.
The Italianisances exhibition is organized by the Nous Tous association, which works to preserve Tunisian heritage. The initiative is designed to be both cultural and educational, promoting awareness and appreciation of the country’s rich architectural history. The exhibition will run at the National School of Architecture and Urbanism in Tunis until October 18.
The event is part of a broader effort to recognize and celebrate the diverse cultural influences that have shaped Tunisia’s architectural landscape. By highlighting the Italian imprint on Tunisian architecture, the exhibition provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore and understand the complex historical and cultural context of the country’s built environment. With its rich cultural significance and educational value, the Italianisances exhibition is a notable event in Tunisia’s cultural calendar.