The Mediterranean Sea forms a framework for exploring architecture and cities in the early modern period, focusing mainly on the 16th century and examining key cities such as Venice, Istanbul, Rome, Aleppo, Seville, Granada, with the aim of discovering parallels and contrasts between urban form, architecture, and society under Christian and Islamic rule. Themes include religious complexes as urban design, sociallife and public space, trade and commerce, building practices and cultures, and the impact of disaster (war, epidemics, earthquakes, fire)on urban form. Wider global connections such as the intertwined histories of coffee, sugar, and slaves will be considered. Students will learn different approaches to studying cities and architecture, along with methods for analyzing them in cross-cultural context through a mix of lectures, workshops, and discussions. Sustained attendance and engagement required.