Islamic Traces of Sicily

Sicily was settled by the Arabs between the 9th and 11th centuries. Its capital Palermo still harbours the remnants of mosques, moorish palaces, Arab influenced agricultural and culinary practices and artistic expressions that often fall under the radar of the official tourist itinerary. 

Working with anthropologist Giulia Liberatore I followed a number of inhabitants of the city – both Muslim and those of other faiths or none – as they searched for remnants of the Islamic past in the architecture and landscape, sensorial experiences, religious practices, language and performing arts. They bring to life their imaginaries of the past, giving it meaning in the present.