Sint-Pietersbasiliek te Vaticaanstad 1669 - 1670

This engraving of the Vatican, made by Giovanni Battista Falda in the late 17th century, captures the imposing dome, a symbol of papal authority. The dome, derived from ancient Roman architecture, signifies power, and a connection to classical ideals. Consider the oculus, a circular opening at the dome's crown, reminiscent of the Pantheon's. This feature transcends its architectural function, embodying spiritual concepts of enlightenment and divine connection, drawing the eye upwards, inviting contemplation. The dome echoes the heavens, and its appropriation across centuries, from Roman temples to Christian cathedrals, illustrates its enduring potency. It's a visual language that resurfaces, carrying layers of historical and cultural significance, each iteration subtly transformed by time and context. The dome invokes awe, connecting us to something greater, tapping into our collective memory.