For sixty years, he photographed vanishing monuments in the Czech Republic. The story of an unknown traveler comes to life
Jiří Fiedler, a linguist and translator, documented his travels across Czechoslovakia from 1951 to 2013, capturing 42,000 black-and-white photographs of historical sites. His work, which focused on Jewish architecture and cemeteries, is currently showcased in an exhibition at the Klaus Synagogue in Prague. Fiedler began his adventures at age thirteen and used various cameras throughout his life, including the Praktika, which significantly increased his output. His meticulous records and photographs reflect a deep interest in local history and Jewish heritage, despite facing challenges from authorities. The exhibition features selected travel logs and photographs, aiming to inspire others to explore their surroundings.