Romeins amfitheater in Fiesole c. 1882 - 1890

This evocative photograph of the Roman amphitheater in Fiesole was captured by the Fratelli Alinari, a pioneering Italian photographic firm. In the late 19th century, Italy experienced a surge of national pride alongside archaeological excavations and preservation projects. This image represents a desire to document and celebrate the grandeur of Italy's Roman past. The amphitheater, a site of public spectacle and communal gathering in ancient times, is now presented as a ruin, prompting reflection on the passage of time and the shifting nature of power. The inclusion of figures within the frame invites viewers to contemplate their own relationship to history and place, and perhaps consider the narratives that once unfolded within these stone walls. The photograph serves not only as a historical record but also as an invitation to engage with the cultural and emotional resonances of the past. It stands as a testament to how photography can capture not just the physical appearance of a site, but also the layers of meaning it accumulates over centuries.