Feb 27 β€’ 20:08 UTC πŸ‡©πŸ‡ͺ Germany FAZ

Ruined Antakya: How do you move on when everything you loved is lost?

A city planner leads a group through the devastated city of Antakya, Turkey, reflecting on the loss and what lies ahead after a devastating earthquake.

Three years after a catastrophic earthquake nearly destroyed Antakya, Turkey, city planner Tuğçe Tezer guides a group of residents through the devastated areas, recalling their memories of what once was. Amidst the ruins, the atmosphere is thick with dust, symbolizing the remnants of their past lives, while the participants, a mix of young and old, gather to share stories and support each other. Tezer's emphasis on love and community provides a glimmer of hope and resilience for those grappling with their losses.

As they navigate through the damaged city, participants express their emotions, forming connections over shared experiences. Tezer, dressed practically for the conditions, instructs them on how to safely navigate the uncertain ground, reflecting her commitment to helping others reclaim their sense of belonging in a city they once knew. The interactions among the group members, marked by greetings and small conversations, demonstrate the human spirit's ability to bond through hardship, underscoring the importance of remembrance in the healing process.

Tezer and her group not only acknowledge the devastation but also look towards the future, focusing on rebuilding and the potential of Antakya. While the scars of the earthquake remain visible, the gathering symbolizes resilience, as they come together to collectively remember their past and envision a hopeful revival of their community, reinforcing the message that moving forward is possible, even in the face of profound loss.

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