08/13/2025
A living portrait of an ancient North African village - This series seeks to capture the meticulous architecture of an indigenous North African village, now sadly abandoned by its former inhabitants. The remaining ruins vividly illustrate the profound respect these people had for their land and their deep connection to it. Through fifteen evocative images, I aim to illuminate the social structure of this ancient village.
Djebla, perched atop a mountain, shares a common strategic positioning with many Berber villages, likely a response to frequent foreign incursions from the sea. This elevated location not only provided a military advantage but also offered an extra layer of protection. Such a strategy enabled the villagers to sustain their cultural and economic practices over generations.
Regrettably, the forces of industrialization and, later, globalization have driven many of its inhabitants to migrate to larger cities. The vibrant way of life that once filled Djebla with pride has faded, leaving the younger generations to grapple with a sense of disconnection. They are left with only images and stories to connect them to their heritage.
While it may be impossible to travel back in time to witness this village in its former glory, revisiting its remnants offers invaluable lessons on how we can manage the future of our planet. Let us learn from the past as we navigate the challenges of today.