Itri 1841

John Ruskin rendered this drawing of Itri with graphite, depicting a medieval commune crowned by its formidable castle. High atop a hill, the castle looms, symbolizing not just physical defense but also the dominion of power, much like citadels in ancient Greek art. These fortified structures echo through time. Think of the Tower of Babel, a potent symbol of human ambition, or the many castles dotting the European landscape. They all tap into our collective memory, stirring deep-seated feelings of awe, security, and, perhaps, fear. This impulse to build upwards towards the heavens, to create lasting monuments, embodies a very human desire to transcend our mortal existence. Here in Itri, Ruskin captures more than just a town; he encapsulates a timeless urge to establish our presence, to defend it, and to leave a lasting mark on the world, resonating across centuries.