Alexandria


The Attarine Mosque (14th C.)

Significance within the Decameron:

Stories:

Filomena: First Day, Third Tale (Melchizedek the Jew avoids the trick of Saladin)
Filomena: Second Day, Ninth Tale (Bernabo's wife crossdresses to avenge her husband)
Panfilo: Tenth Day, Ninth Tale (Messer Torello and his friendship with Saladin)

    Pertinent data:

    Political and Cultural Aspects: As with the vast majority of cities in Northern Africa, Alexandria became an Islamic city when Mohammed's followers moved westward. It was not an isolated city by any means; Alexandria served as an important link in the trading routes of the Mediterranean. The trade season lasted for two months, with the primary cargoes being spices, slaves, and linen. Alexandria housed a substantial textile industry, boasting over fourteen thousand looms by the early fifteenth century. The city had prominent Jewish and Christian communities, however, which were fostered by international trade.

      (J. K., J. Q. & N. F.)