View of Naples: Place Royale 19th century

This drawing captures the Place Royale in Naples, a public space framed by classical architecture. Notice the recurring motif of the arch, a symbol deeply embedded in our collective consciousness. The arch first served as a structural necessity in ancient architecture, allowing for expansive spaces. But soon, it evolved into a symbol of triumph and imperial power, think of Roman arches celebrating military victories. The arch reappears throughout history in triumphal arches, cathedral entrances, and even modern monuments. Each time, it carries echoes of its past lives, layered with new meanings. Here, it frames our view, suggesting a gateway to civic pride and order. These symbols persist because they resonate with primal human needs: to create order, establish power, and commemorate achievement. They engage us on a subconscious level, tapping into a shared cultural memory. The arch in Place Royale is more than stone, it’s a portal to understanding how symbols evolve, adapt, and continue to shape our world.