Abbaye Saint Philibert De Tournus, France 1000

The Abbaye Saint Philibert de Tournus, built by Romanesque architects between 1000 and 1250, presents us with potent symbols, especially the cross. Dominating the façade, the cross here is more than a mere emblem of Christianity; it’s a profound assertion of spiritual authority. The cross echoes through time, much like the Egyptian ankh, bearing witness to humanity's enduring quest for meaning. Consider the placement of the cross high upon the facade, much like the obelisks of ancient Egypt. This placement transcends its purely religious significance to act as a bridge. A bridge between the earthly and the divine, evoking intense emotional states of reverence and awe. This isn't just about religious doctrine. It's about the cyclical, non-linear path of symbols, continually resurfacing, evolving, and acquiring fresh resonance across history.