Gezicht op een kerk, te Rome 1648 - 1712

This is an anonymous etching of a Roman church, made at an unknown date. It’s a reminder of how integral the church has been in shaping the social and physical landscape of Rome. The print offers a bird's eye view, allowing us to see the church within the city's broader scope. It is placed amidst daily activities and people that adds a human dimension to the image. The inscription is printed in three languages – Latin, Italian and French – reflecting the city's role as a crossroads of European culture and religion. The building's architectural form and setting, when viewed through an intersectional lens, reveal the intertwined themes of power, religion, and societal structure. It invites us to consider the church not just as a religious institution, but as a powerful symbol of cultural identity. How did it shape the daily lives and experiences of the diverse communities within Rome?