The Ancient Metropolises: Alexandria

In Alexandria and Cairo, there were important trading centers, which facilitated regular intercultural exchange. In contrast to Cairo, however, there was also a deep religious connection between Venice and Alexandria, which is reflected in contemporary paintings and the design of public spaces. The regular presence of Venetian merchants and members of the fondaco on site also favored the study of historical monuments and the confrontation with contemporary travel reports such as Pierre Belon and Pietro della Valle, which were read and often revised by Venetian travelers.