Gezicht op Castro, ca. 1702 1702 - 1703

This bird’s-eye view of Castro, made around 1702 by an anonymous artist, presents a fortified town perched atop a hill, a testament to human endeavor amidst nature. The city, secured by walls, embodies protection and order. The image resonates with ancient cities depicted in classical art, echoing the desire for safety and structure. These walls also appear in medieval tapestries and Renaissance paintings, always signifying a division between civilization and the unknown, a boundary between the safe and the threatening. The act of fortification carries its weight through time. It symbolizes not only physical defense but also the psychological need for boundaries. Just as in ancient times, the sight of a fortified city speaks to our subconscious fears and our primal need for security. This is a universal theme that transcends epochs, echoing in our collective memory and our individual dreams. Thus, this unassuming city view becomes a portal, connecting us to the past and inviting us to reflect on our enduring quest for safety and order in a chaotic world.