Gezicht op de kathedraal van Antwerpen en oude huizen aan de Grote Markt 1866 - 1870

Jules Hippolyte Quéval captured this view of the Cathedral of Antwerp and its Grote Markt. Dominating the composition is the cathedral's spire, a symbol deeply rooted in religious aspiration. These towering structures, ubiquitous throughout the medieval period, reach skyward, embodying the yearning to connect with the divine. Consider the obelisks of ancient Egypt or the ziggurats of Mesopotamia. In each case, verticality signifies a bridge between the earthly and the celestial realms. This architectural language transcends cultural boundaries, appearing in different forms and resonating with humanity's timeless quest for spiritual transcendence. The spire evokes a collective memory of faith, a cultural inheritance passed down through generations. It is a visual anchor, reminding us of our place in the cosmos and our persistent desire for something beyond ourselves. This symbol is not static, though. As societies evolve, the spire adapts, reflecting changing beliefs and values, yet maintaining its fundamental essence as an emblem of hope and divine connection.