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State Visit of Ottoman Sultan Abdul Aziz in 1867
Historical Context: Sultan Abdul Aziz’s visit to England was part of a diplomatic tour, and his visit to the Crystal Palace was a momentous occasion. The Sultan was received with great fanfare, reflecting the importance of the Ottoman State in global politics at the time.
Cultural Interactions: Crystal Palace, during its peak, attracted diverse communities, including members of a 100 strong Somali community. These interactions were seen as unusual at the time!
Re-imagining the Scene: Picture Somali performers at the Crystal Palace, dressed in traditional attire, engaging with Victorian society. This was an exhibition that can be highly questionable where a white man brought peace!
Alhambra and Allah
Architectural Influence: The Alhambra, a famous palace in Granada, Spain, known for its Islamic architecture, served as an inspiration for various buildings in the West. The Crystal Palace itself had exhibitions that celebrated different cultures, including Islamic art and architecture.
*PLEASE NOTE*: Starting location is Crystal Palace train station, London SE19 2AZ