Gezicht op het Oor van Dionysius te Syracuse, Sicilië 1857 - 1914

Giorgio Sommer's "Gezicht op het Oor van Dionysius te Syracuse, Sicilië" (1857-1914) is a striking black and white photograph capturing the "Ear of Dionysius," a unique geological formation near Syracuse, Sicily. This large cave, carved into the limestone cliff, was used as a prison in ancient times. Its acoustics are such that whispers at the entrance are amplified inside, creating an eerie effect. Sommer, a renowned photographer of the era, expertly captures the imposing presence of the cave with its dramatic shadows and rough texture. The image, now in the Rijksmuseum, offers a glimpse into the history and natural beauty of Sicily.