Bieszczady

no place for ordinary people

 

Bieszczady, a very peculiar place situated in the far south-eastern part of Poland and known as one of the last European non-urbanised areas. With its wilderness, amazing natural forests and mountain range, Bieszczady became a symbol of freedom and a popular destination among sensitive people, outcasts, loners, homeless men, survivors and those – often young man – escaping from the civilized world and indulging into the tough reality of daily survival in search of the essence of life and freedom.

Biesczcady has a complex past. War, destruction, deportation and genocide has left a dark footprint and made it what it is today. There is no industry, apart from forestry. The land is infertile, there are no farmers but an occasional sheep herder with crafted sheep cheese. In summer the area is crowded with tourists, enjoying the beautiful nature. In winter, most people leave, discouraged by frostbite and the stubbornness of roads covered by deep snow. Others stay for ever. They live in poverty and often seek solace in alcohol.
Bieszczady, no place for ordinary people.

 

They never regret – since this is where they belong.

 

 

© Marijke Stroucken | Bieszczady, no place for ordinary people.
Jedrus’ frozen laundry | 2016

 

© Marijke Stroucken | Bieszczady, no place for ordinary people.
Jedrus | 2016

 

 

© Marijke Stroucken | Bieszczady, no place for ordinary people.
Stanislaw’s house | 2016

 

 

 

© Marijke Stroucken | Bieszczady, no place for ordinary people.
Stanislaw | 2016

 

 

 

© Marijke Stroucken | Bieszczady, no place for ordinary people.
frozen forest | 2016

 

 

 

© Marijke Stroucken | Bieszczady, no place for ordinary people.
Slawek and Kamil | 2016

 

 

© Marijke Stroucken | Bieszczady, no place for ordinary people.
Kamil in front of Kamils and Slaweks house |2016

 

 

 

© Marijke Stroucken | Bieszczady, no place for ordinary people.
Jewish cemetery | 2016

 

 

 

© Marijke Stroucken | Bieszczady, no place for ordinary people.
Barbara |2016

 

 

© Marijke Stroucken | Bieszczady, no place for ordinary people.
Jedrus’ place |2017

 

 

© Marijke Stroucken | Bieszczady, no place for ordinary people.
Jedrus’ place |2017