Gezicht op Florence before 1890

This is a photographic view of Florence from Bardi Church. The towering spires and domes that punctuate the cityscape have roots that stretch back to ancient obelisks, symbols of power and connection to the divine. Observe how these forms reappear throughout history, aspiring to pierce the heavens in Gothic cathedrals and Renaissance basilicas. The spire is not merely an architectural element; it’s a visual echo of humanity’s enduring quest for transcendence. Consider the psychological weight of such a symbol—how it stirs the collective memory, reminding us of our place in the cosmos. Like the ancient obelisks of Egypt, these structures reflect the power of human aspiration, bearing witness to the passage of time. This non-linear progression of symbols transcends eras, echoing across cultures, and resurfaces, transformed, in diverse historical contexts.