The 19C was a period of economic prosperity for Palermo, which opened up to international trade. With this boom, a large middle class was created, which was concerned to leave its mark. Sumptuous homes, wide, straight avenues and huge theatres appeared. The architecture makes widespread use of wrought iron work, glass and floral motifs. The streets of the new city are a veritable museum of what is known since then as the "liberty" style.