Online book launch: ‘Classicism and the Construction of Capital Cities. London, Athens, and Rome in the 19th century.’

[Spentzou, Efi]

Wednesday 10th June 2026, 2.00pm – 3.00pm (BST). To join, click here

The Centre for the Reception of Greece and Rome and the Hellenic Institute at Royal Holloway are delighted to invite you to their first joint event: a panel discussion in celebration of Prof. Richard Alston’s latest book, Classicism and the Construction of Capital Cities (Bloomsbury 2025), with panellists Gonda Van Steen (KCL) and Christopher Jotischky (Royal Holloway University of London).

The story of 19th century architectural Classicism offers a compelling narrative of utopian dreams clashing with authoritarian politics to generate the complexities of modern urban landscapes. Exploring the intriguing interplay between tradition and modernity in the 19th century capitals of London, Athens and Rome, the book delves into the political and architectural choices that shaped these cities as representations of self-consciously modern nations.

The discussion at the launch will focus on the chapter that explores Athens. The two panellists and the author will each reflect briefly on the chapter, incorporating reflection on 19th century Athens and Greece, before opening the floor to wider discussion.

To join the event on 10th June 2026, please click here.

This event is jointly organised by  The Centre for the Reception of Greece and Rome and The Hellenic Institute at Royal Holloway.

For any inquiries, please contact Rev Dr. Liz Gloyn at liz....@rhul.ac.uk

---------------------------------

Dr Efi Spentzou

Reader in Latin Literature and Classical Reception

Masters by Research in Classical Reception Programme Director

Schools and Outreach Lead for Classics

Co-director, Hellenic Institute

Lead in Myth and Voice: immersive storytelling with communities

https://mythandvoice.substack.com/

Classics, School of Humanities, Royal Holloway University of London

[she/her]

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