Malika Dekkiche
During the past year, you may have seen various posts on social media concerning this new EOS Project DiplomatiCon and wonder…
What is DiplomatiCon?
DiplomatiCon is an acronym that stands for ‘Diplomatic contacts and connections’ and that focuses on those particular contacts that took place in the late Medieval Mediterranean between the Mamluk Sultanate, the Italian polities and the Crown of Aragon. The project aims at unraveling the intricate web of diplomatic relations and reshaping our understanding of the Medieval Mediterranean history, and this against the traditional political and religious divides that has so far dominated the history of exchanges between the Islamic and Christian worlds.
The funding and the composition
DiplomatiCon is an Excellence of Sciences (EOS) funded project, that is a project based on the collaboration between two Belgian institutions, one Flemish and one French-speaking. EOS funding also allows international partners to participate to this Belgian adventure!
DiplomatiCon is thus supported by four institutions: The University of Antwerp (Malika Dekkiche and Iason Jongepier), the University of Liège (host instititution, Frédéric Bauden), The University of Molise/Bologna/Torino (Isabella Lazzarini) and the CSIC/University of Barcelona (Roser Salicrú I Lluch, CSIC).
The Power of Data, Collaboration and Digital tools
At the heart of DiplomatiCon lies an extensive database – a treasure trove of interconnected historical material. This digital repository, crafted by collaborating researchers and institutes, serves as a nucleus for analyzing primary sources, annotating, and deciphering the intricate threads of medieval diplomatic history. Additionally, the project makes uses of cutting-edge methodologies like Social Network Analysis and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). These tools uncover hidden patterns, visualize networks, and reconstruct narratives previously obscured by the sands of time.
Bridging Historical Divides
DiplomatiCon challenges conventional narratives by adopting an innovative approach that transcends the traditional boundaries set by national histories. Embracing the methodologies of New Diplomatic History and Connected Histories, this project aims to forge a holistic understanding of the interwoven histories of the Islamic and Christian worlds during the medieval era.
Shift in Focus
At its core, DiplomatiCon reimagines diplomacy beyond the lens of political entities, shedding light on a multi-layered structure involving various agents – ambassadors, brokers, informers, and translators. This shift in focus from state actors to the intricate network of individuals unveils a more nuanced panorama of medieval diplomacy.
Tracing Diplomatic Networks
One facet of the project immerses into the diplomatic networks spanning the Mamluk Sultanate, Italian polities, and the Crown of Aragon. Through meticulous research and analysis, the project scrutinizes Venice’s dominance in the Eastern Mediterranean, the Crown of Aragon’s pivotal role, and the diverse Italian and Iberian networks that evolved over time.
Mapping Diplomatic Spaces
Beyond conventional narratives, DiplomatiCon maps the creation and experiences of diplomatic spaces. Through Spatial Analysis and discourse of place, the project explores how spaces—formal and informal—facilitated exchanges and interactions, blurring religious and political boundaries prevalent in historical discourse.
Unlocking Cultural Translations
One of the project’s endeavors revolves around translators and brokers—often enigmatic figures in medieval diplomacy, their identity, background, and their working methods. Beyond the mere literal translations, DiplomatiCon focuses on the transposition of culture, unveiling how these individuals shaped hybrid forms of communication, bridging cultural chasms.
Impact and Future Directions
Beyond the research conducted that will undoubtedly reshapes historical narratives on Medieval Mediterranean Diplomacy, DiplomatiCon also offers invaluable resources to scholars and students. Through Open Access Database and interactive maps, the project aspires to be a cornerstone in diplomatic and Mediterranean studies.
Conclusion: A Tapestry Unveiled
By reimagining diplomatic history through diverse lenses, the project unveils the vibrant, interconnected tapestry of medieval diplomacy, transcending borders and rewriting the narratives of the past. In a world where historical divides often overshadow interconnectedness, DiplomatiCon stands as a testament to the power of collaborative interdisciplinary research in reshaping our understanding of medieval diplomatic history.