Tag: pine cone

  • Ceramic Pinecones In Sicily

    Pinecones are a powerful symbol that you’ll see all over Sicily and southern Italy in ceramic (like these shown) on balconies, front gates, and prominently displayed inside homes. The significance of pinecones in modern times is one of hospitality and welcoming, but not only. The pinecone as a botanical is a reproductive organ. Female pinecones…

  • The Significance Of Pine Cone Ceramics In Sicily

    You’ll see majolica pine cones like this one I photographed in the ceramic center, Caltagirone, all over Sicily and southern Italy. It’s a significant symbol. As a botanical, the pine cone is a reproductive organ. Female pine cones hold seeds. Male pine cones hold pollen. From ancient Greek times, the pine cone recalls the Greek…

  • Pine Cones, Palm Leaves, And Wheat

    Live from Italy! Pine cones, palm leaves, and wheat–what do they mean? The past two days, I’ve been in Bari, a major city in the region of Puglia. While in Bari, I visited two of the major churches, the late 12th century Basilica of San Nicola and the late 13th century Cathedral of San Sabino.…

  • You’re Welcome

    All over Sicily you will see ceramic pine cones donning the gates and entryways of homes and businesses. These colorful pine cones symbolize warmth and hospitality.