Plattegrond van Zaltbommel met stadsgezicht 1657

This is an anonymous city map of Zaltbommel with a cityscape. Here, the city's walls are not just boundaries; they are symbols of protection, a fortified embrace against the unknown. We can see the cultural fascination with security, echoing in the defensive walls of ancient Jericho or the fortresses of medieval Europe. The walls are built in the "star fort" design with triangular bastions, which became popular in the 16th century. This form speaks of a collective anxiety, a silent acknowledgment of the constant threat of invasion. The image's emotional pull lies in the tension between safety and confinement, reflecting our own complex relationship with security. The visual symbol of the city wall has been passed down and evolved through time. Even today, gated communities and border walls tap into the same deep-seated need for protection, illustrating that these symbolic constructs continue to shape our perceptions and behaviors.