Gezicht op Palermo, gezien vanaf de Porta Nuova c. 1850 - 1870

Giorgio Conrad made this photograph of Palermo from the Porta Nuova using the 19th-century stereograph technique. This process allowed two nearly identical images to be viewed together through a special device, creating an illusion of depth and a more immersive experience for the viewer. Photographs like this one, made in Italy, were aimed at tourists who wanted to experience the picturesque views of the country. The city of Palermo is captured from an elevated viewpoint, and the inclusion of the Porta Nuova in the foreground adds a historical and architectural point of interest, suggesting the layering of history as a key element in the city's identity. What is particularly interesting is how this image, produced during a period of significant political and social change in Italy, might serve as a form of cultural promotion. To understand the photograph’s role, we can research the history of tourism in Italy, the development of photography as a medium, and the socio-political context of Palermo itself. Ultimately, our interpretation of this photograph is enriched by this exploration of its historical and institutional context.