July 18

Events - Culture & Arts

1334day.year

The bishop of Florence blesses the first foundation stone for the new campanile (bell tower) of the Florence Cathedral, designed by the artist Giotto di Bondone.

On July 18, 1334, the bishop of Florence blessed the cornerstone for Giotto di Bondone’s bell tower at the Florence Cathedral, marking the start of its construction.
Bishop Francesco Silvestri led the ceremonial blessing of the foundation stone for the new campanile adjacent to the Florence Cathedral on July 18, 1334. Renowned artist Giotto di Bondone designed the tower, blending Gothic style with emerging Florentine artistry. Giotto oversaw the early construction phases until his death in 1337, after which other masters continued his vision. The campanile features white, green, and red marble panels decorated with intricate reliefs and sculptures. Rising over 84 meters, it complements Brunelleschi’s later dome and enhances Florence's skyline. The bell tower became a symbol of the city's artistic ambition and civic pride. Centuries later, Giotto's Campanile remains a landmark of medieval Italian architecture.
1334 Florence campanile Florence Cathedral Giotto di Bondone
1723day.year

Johann Sebastian Bach leads the first performance of his cantata Erforsche mich, Gott, und erfahre mein Herz, BWV 136, in Leipzig on the eighth Sunday after Trinity.

Johann Sebastian Bach conducted the premiere of his cantata BWV 136 in Leipzig, showcasing his early Leipzig style.
On 18 July 1723, Johann Sebastian Bach premiered his cantata Erforsche mich, Gott, und erfahre mein Herz (BWV 136) at the St. Thomas Church in Leipzig. The work was part of his first cycle of cantatas composed during his initial months as Thomaskantor. Scored for choir, soloists and orchestra, BWV 136 explores themes of divine wisdom and self-examination. Bach led the musicians and vocalists in a lavish liturgical performance for the eighth Sunday after Trinity. The cantata's intricate counterpoint and expressive arias exemplify Bach's early Leipzig style. This premiere solidified his reputation in one of Europe's leading musical centers. Today, BWV 136 remains a cherished example of Bach's sacred vocal music.
1723 Johann Sebastian Bach Erforsche mich, Gott, und erfahre mein Herz, BWV 136 Trinity
1925day.year

Adolf Hitler publishes Mein Kampf.

Adolf Hitler releases Mein Kampf, an autobiographical manifesto that outlines his ideology and political ambitions.
Mein Kampf was published on July 18, 1925, by Adolf Hitler shortly after his release from prison. The book combines elements of autobiography with Hitler’s political ideology, including his views on race, nationalism, and anti-Semitism. It sold modestly at first but gained popularity as the Nazi Party rose to power. The themes and narrative in Mein Kampf laid the ideological foundation for the party’s future policies in Germany. Its publication marked a significant moment in the spread of extremist political propaganda. Over the decades, Mein Kampf has remained a controversial and influential text in modern history.
1925 Adolf Hitler Mein Kampf