The Sicilian Trinacria, in this photograph, is the official symbol of Sicily—the land of fire and sea, home of hospitality and cordiality, where anyone who stops to admire its beauty remains fascinated by its overwhelming colors.
The origin of the Sicilian Trinacria remains shrouded in mystery
The most probable explanation is that this symbolic figure formed by three legs that branch out from a common center and have feet turned from right to left represent the rotating movement of the sun.
In the middle of this symbol, you find the head of Gorgon, whose hair is a snake intertwined with ears of corn. You will also see two eagle wings at the sides and from which three legs bend at the knees.
So the head of the Sicilian Trinacria refers to the three Gorgons: Medusa (the Gorgon par excellence), Steno, and Euriale. The Gorgons were monsters of Greek mythology with golden wings, hands with bronze claws, wild boar tusks and snakes tangled in place of hair.
It is said that whoever looked at them directly in the eyes remained petrified. The Gorgon par excellence was Medusa, the only mortal among the three and was the guardian of the underworld. The Gorgons represented perversion in its three forms: Euriale represented sexual perversion, Steno, moral perversion, and Medusa, intellectual perversion.
The ears of wheat that adorn the head of the Gorgon are a symbol of fertility and prosperity which confirm the long-held tradition of Sicily as the granary of the ancient Roman Empire.
The three legs rotate counterclockwise and are bent at the knee. Their arrangement instinctively evokes a triangular shape, a geographical peculiarity of the island due to the extremities of its promontories: Capo Lilibeo to the west (Trapani), Capo Passero to the south (Siracusa) and Capo Peloro to the east (Messina).
The Mystical tradition
In the mystical-religious tradition, the triangle represents the Trinity. It’s a basic concept present in almost all religions that symbolizes the perennial cycle of cosmic energy. It flies in the face of the esoteric tradition of the Triangle which is the representation of the “3”. It’s a philosophical and sacred number, a number of maximum wisdom and perfect harmony, abundance and fertility.
Finally, the eagle wings represent the vital force, the feeling understood as passion, the strength of the spirit that prevails overall matter.
I created this photograph in Taormina, one of the most amazing places in Sicily. It was a really hot day during August and I clearly remember how this Sicilian Trinacria impressed me with its heritage of history and mystery. I found it on a stone wall, under the hot Sicilian sun, speaking to me with a hypnotic call. Above all, this photograph contains thousands of years of history as well as mythological mystery.
The best format for this photograph is the square crop with this composition, the Medusa face at the center of the photograph draws the attention of the observer.
I printed this photograph for my personal use, highlighting it in my home.
I like the mystery of this image, the symbolism included, and the fact that it adds some Sicilian color to the wall. In conclusion, this photograph is something special; but only for people who can appreciate it. It tells you thousands of years of history in one single image.
Sicilian Trinacria: A Museum Quality Fine Art Photography
The Trinacria, with its bright hues and intricate design, sparked a sense of deep connection in me. It spoke not only of Sicilian culture but also of the human desire for identity and the thirst for heritage. This photograph is my endeavor to encapsulate that shared human experience.
It is a testament to our collective journey and is unique in its portrayal of such a powerful symbol in a manner that is both artistic and true to its essence.
Captured at the magic hour when sunlight falls obliquely, bathing everything in a warm, golden hue, the Trinacria comes alive in this image. The techniques used to capture this moment were meticulous, as the play of natural light against the vibrant colors of the sculpture had to be masterfully captured in a single, perfect moment.
As the owner of this photograph, you would be bringing a piece of Sicilian mythology and culture into your space. Ideal for the modern and culturally-inclined individual, it's a statement piece that commands attention.
This photograph is more than just a print; it’s a testament to your appreciation of global cultures and fine art. In a world where mass-produced art is common, choosing this piece sets you apart as an individual with a discerning eye. Imagining your home without this piece, one can't help but feel the absence of the uniqueness, the conversation, and the elegance this print brings.
As a passionate photographer, I invite you to explore the world through my lens and let this fascinating piece of Sicilian culture add a touch of elegance and depth to your space.
I’ve chosen to work in partnership with Fine Art America. It’s the largest custom framing company in the world with over 40 years of experience producing museum-quality prints.
Fine Art America offers hundreds of different frames and mats in a variety of colors and materials. You can also choose the dimension of the photograph that best works for you and your décor.
Our team produces each museum-quality art print using archival inks. We’ll deliver the photograph right to your doorstep. The expert framing staff will hand-craft your photograph and ship it directly to you with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
If you love Italy and you love elegance—you’ve just found the perfect combination. It will be a treat for your eyes and enhance your living space. You deserve striking beauty in your home and you can be sure friends and family will notice.
Paolo Modena
My name is Paolo. I am a photographer. I consider myself fortunate to have grown up in Italy, surrounded by the art that is the envy of the world. I enjoy photography because it has caused me to fall in love with light, shade, and color. I see the world around me with fresh eyes every single day. And sometimes, when the mood is right, I just sit back and enjoy the moment without taking a photo.