Architecture, Style, and Construction in Monemvasia

The following section treats problems of medieval architectural style, city planning, and urban construction. In a certain sense, this part lies outside of the framework of this book, for these topics are not limited only to Monemvasia. The purpose of the following discussion is to provide the interested visitors with the necessary tools, so that they can make their own discoveries, and place these in their proper context. The explanation of architectural details and their function, of the problems of medieval urban construction, and of stylistic characteristics will hopefully prepare the visitors to observe certain fine points which they might otherwise miss when viewing the town as an integrated whole. But it is precisely the comprehensive view of many details that constitutes the fascination of a city which still lies in several parts in ruins.