Gezicht op Jeruzalem vanaf de Olijfberg 1867 - 1885

Félix Bonfils captured this photograph of Jerusalem from the Mount of Olives in the 19th century, and it's the olive tree that truly anchors our attention. More than just a botanical specimen, the olive tree is laden with historical and religious symbolism. In ancient times, the olive branch was a symbol of peace and victory, deeply intertwined with the mythology of the Mediterranean. We see its echoes in classical sculptures and friezes, where figures bear olive branches as emblems of harmony and triumph. But here, the olive tree overlooking Jerusalem takes on a particularly poignant meaning. The Mount of Olives is a site of immense spiritual weight. The tree evokes reflections on the deep, subconscious connection between the land, its people, and their enduring faith. The image invites us to ponder the layers of history and belief. This is a place where the echoes of ancient rites and hopes resonate. The olive tree has been reborn through time, bearing witness to the city’s ever-repeating cycles.