The study of the semiotics of palaces in the Ancient Near East and Ancient Egypt offers historians valuable insights, as architectural size and type reflect the representation chosen by rulers. Some palatial features were inspired by temples, enhancing the ruler's divine portrayal. The integration of a temple within the palace signifies the ruler's desire for divine support and protection. The ruler's importance is also indicated by the throne room's size and column count, illustrating spatial hierarchy within the complex. For example, a more intimate throne room suggests a space for confidential discussions with visitors. Additionally, the capacity of storerooms reveals the economic power behind the palace. Comparing elements of palatial and domestic architecture aids in tracing the origins of specific components. This exploration of semiotics began with the first palace volume published in 2018, following a 2013 conference in London. The current volume continues this work, stemming from a second palace conference at the 10th ICAANE in Vienna in 2016. It primarily focuses on Near Eastern palaces while also introducing additional palaces in Egypt and Nubia, featuring studies by leading experts in the field.
