Gezicht op Palermo vanaf de Porta Nuova c. 1860 - 1880

Roberto Rive's stereoscopic view captures Palermo from the Porta Nuova. Dominating the vista is the city's cathedral, its dome a powerful symbol of religious authority. This form of the dome, an architectural motif resonating with the oculus of ancient temples, stretches back through time. The dome is not merely a structural element; it symbolizes the cosmos, a sacred canopy sheltering believers. Even today, the dome serves as a cultural touchstone, evoking notions of stability and spiritual enlightenment. This cyclical journey of symbols reveals how human thought and expression are continuously shaped by historical precedents and primal collective memories. Rive's Palermo is more than a city, it is a vessel carrying layers of meaning, inviting viewers to contemplate the enduring power of symbols in shaping our cultural identity.