The Hellenic University Club of Philadelphia and the Modern Greek Program at the University of Pennsylvania are co-sponsoring a lecture by world-renowned expert on Byzantine history Dr. Robert Ousterhout entitled “Cappadocia: From Above and Below,” Friday, April 11, 2014 at 6:00 PM. The lecture will be held at the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, 3260 South Street, Room 2, Philadelphia, PA.
For hundreds of years, Cappadocia has been known for its underground cities, cave churches and houses carved in the rocks. Dr. Robert Ousterhout is a professor at the University of Pennsylvania and Director of the Center for Ancient Studies. Dr. Ousterhout also teaches courses in Byzantine art and architectural history. He is a world-renowned expert on Byzantium and has written several books on the subject, including The Byzantine Monuments of the Evros/Meriç River Valley and A Byzantine Settlement in Cappadocia. In addition to his writings and teaching, Dr. Ousterhout’s work in the field is extensive. His biography states, ‘His scope ranges from projects such as restoring ancient churches in Istanbul to documentation and analysis of settlements in Cappadocia.’
Following the program, we will have a ‘sneak preview’ of an expanded exhibition of large scale photographs by renowned Turkish photographer Ahmet Ertug titled ‘Sacred Spaces’, which is scheduled to open to the public on Saturday, April 12th. This exhibition features photographs of the interiors of churches in Constantinople, the legendary Aghia Sophia and the smaller Church of Christ at the Chora Monastery.
Doors will open at 5:30 pm and we ask that you use the Kress entrance on the east end of the building across from the parking garage. Please note that our program must adhere to a 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm timeline as the Museum must close by 8:00 pm. This event is free and guests are welcome.
