When a photographer looks back at their collection of photos, they are also revisiting the memories and experiences that are associated with them.
https://meanderingpassage.com//wp-content/uploads/images/2023/06/ebm-20120709103835-1-MP-Post-Image-1500-WM-5.jpg
As I stood outside the stunning Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence, Italy, I gazed up at the sunlit dome and spotted tourists on the viewing balcony. I created this image using the longest camera lens I carried and later some cropping. It’s been enhanced to highlight the dome’s intricate architecture while hopefully maintaining the visibility of the people. While I made many photos here, none seemed to do justice to the cathedral as a whole.
The landmark 1200s cathedral is known for its red-tiled dome, colored marble facade & elegant Giotto tower. If the structure itself isn’t overwhelming enough, consider its 1100-year age. There’s an inside stairway for accessing the dome-viewing balcony.
The inspiration for the image title “Nearer To Thee” came from the Christian Hymm, “Nearer, My God, to Thee” by Sarah F. Adams (1841);
Verse 3: “There let the way appear, steps unto heaven;…”
I also considered Led Zeppelin’s “Stairway to Heaven” for the title, but the hymn seems more appropriate.
There was a long queue for these particular steps on the day we visited, so this was as close as I got.
I’m impressed with the image as well as the architecture. My mind quickly goes to amount of ingenuity to create something as magnificent at that time. They had none of the engineering tools or construction tools we have. That alone is impressive. Having the people does give us some indication of its massive size. I love Stairway to Heaven but I think your title fits perfectly. Love that starburst!!!!!
The cathedral is truly remarkable; however, it took approximately 140 years from the initial stone placement to the dome’s completion. Although the craftsmanship and manual labor involved in constructing such ancient structures are amazing, it’s doubtful whether we would have the patience to endure such a prolonged timeline now. I am curious how often the architectural plans were altered during those 140 years. Yes, I thought you might like that starburst, Monte. ✨