Straat in San Remo 1860 - 1890

Celestino Degoix made this photograph of a street in San Remo, Italy, sometime in the late nineteenth century. The image offers a glimpse into the urbanization of the Italian Riviera during this period. The city is captured in a moment of transition, with old and new architectural styles coexisting. We see the traditional buildings alongside the new constructions that catered to the burgeoning tourist industry. The presence of a palm tree—an exotic import—symbolizes the changing landscape and the influx of foreign influence. The clean, well-maintained street suggests the local government’s investment in infrastructure to attract visitors. Photographs like these provide a fascinating insight into the social conditions that shaped artistic production and reception. By consulting local archives, historical maps, and travel guides, we can better understand the historical context and the public role of this art.