A visual exploration of a dramatic and absurd chapter of Romania’s recent history: the displacement of seven churches from Bucharest under Ceaușescu’s ‘systematization’ program, as well as the immurement of a synagogue.

Bucharest in the 1980s. Ceaușescu’s “systematization” program is in full swing in the Romanian capital: one-third of the historic center has been wiped out to make way for imposing edifices and wide avenues intended to honor the regime. Despite Ceaușescu’s particularly dogged approach towards the churches, seven are spared and undergo a process as incredible as it is absurd: they are lifted and placed on rails then moved and masked by housing blocks. Other sacred buildings, such as the Great “Polish” Synagogue, are hidden behind socialist panel constructions. Withdrawn from the cityscape, these buildings live secret lives, interpolated in the disparate architecture that shapes Bucharest’s urban landscape today.

Combining photographs with archival material, this critical inventory reveals a lesser-known yet fascinating urban and political story. Its act of ‘unmasking’ also addresses the broader issue of Romania’s reappraisal of its past, a process the country has yet to accomplish.

Scenography: Cyril Delhomme
Graphic design: Minami Shimakage

Book published in conjunction with the exhibition:

Mobile Churches, Kehrer Verlag, Heidelberg

Also presented at:

Parcours Photo Saint-Germain/Église Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Paris
3 November – 19 November 2017

Chapel of Reconciliation/Berlin Wall Memorial
As part of the festival MakeCity
5 June – 19 August 2018

Rencontres de la Photographie/Nouveau Prix Découverte (Ground Countrol), Arles
Presented by the Kehrer Galerie, Berlin
2 July – 23 September 2018

Maison des Associations, Rennes
As part of the festival Travelling and the France-Romania Season
21 January – 28 February 2019

Suțu Palace/Municipality Museum, Bucharest
As part of the France-Romania Season
13 June – 31 July 2019