Church buildings have been a mainstay feature throughout Europe for centuries, and one of my favorite things to photograph. From quaint country chapels to luxurious and majestic cathedrals, the “Old World” is home or has been home to hundreds of churches. Some of them are maintained in pristine shape, highly regarded as national treasures, while others meet a rather different ending, being left in the hands of time and its relentless way of decaying things. Italy is a perfect example of a country that, although greatly valuing its history, architecture, culture, and connection with the church as an institution, still features its share of abandoned churches.
Today, abandoned churches in Italy and elsewhere offer a unique glimpse into the past. A source of reflection, perhaps, as they prompt us to think about the future. If a church, once the most important haven in the community, can become a pile of ruins, what does that say about what we hold certain today? These are the traces of the past of many communities, and if we follow them, we can see where we all came from and perhaps where we’re going.
Roman Robroek is a photographer who captures forgotten places around the world. In particular, he is focused on creating stunning pho-tos of abandoned locations, rich with wonder, mystery and unanswered questions... Read more…