A large prison complex somewhere in France. This location is known as H15. A prison that was never really meant to be a prison. The first stones were laid in 1146 to house the monks of the Sistersinian order. But what was subsequently used in the 19th century to house the worst of the bad. The living conditions were miserable. At the end of the 19th century it was decided to build a new complex right next to it. Originally the idea was to house women here, but the supply was so high that the new complex was quickly filled with male prisoners.
The doors were closed in October 2011. The complex has been demolished and in 2022 construction works for a new prison will start here. In 2027, the first prisoner will be able to move in.
My name is John Noppen. During my tour through different countries I take unique photographs of beautiful deserted places and buildings, capturing the decay and atmosphere is my ultimate goal. The possibility to take a look behind closed doors and the excitement that this branch of photography brings with.. Read more…