| Abstract: | This paper presents an overview of the architecture of Old Calabar (Nigeria) covering the period from the late 16th century to the present. Calabar's architectural history is divided into three stages: the communal stage (the period prior to the establishment of trade links with the Europeans on the coast of Calabar, from the 16th century to the early 17th century); the fragmentation stage (this period was ushered into Old Calabar by the contacts with European slave traders and lasted from the late 17th century to almost mid-20th century); and the postcolonial period. The architecture of the communal period consisted of buildings made of mud, timber or wood and thatch. The fragmentation period was characterized by imported prefabricated and mansory buildings for individuals, groups, kings, missionaries and colonial officials. The postcolonial era witnessed more imported architecture. Furthermore, much of what could be regarded as the architectural legacy of Old Calabar was pulled down and gave way to modern constructions. Bibliogr., sum. |
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