Abandoned hotel | Black and white photography | Switzerland

by Laura Dijkslag

Hotel Belvédère at Furkapas is one of the most evocative buildings for me, and I was eager to capture it. It has been empty since 2015, which is evident from the boarded-up windows and doors and the lack of maintenance. This gives it a mysterious, almost ghostly character. When I was there, a thunderstorm was approaching, which only added to the menacing atmosphere.

I chose to convert the photo to black and white, as this further emphasises the erratic nature of the scene and brings out the sense of desolation and mystery even more.

Hotel Belvédère at Furkapas Pass is one of Switzerland's most iconic abandoned buildings. Located at an altitude of 2,429 metres, the hotel once offered stunning views of the Rhone glacier and welcomed adventurous travellers. Since its closure in 2015, the building exudes a melancholic charm, enhanced by its neglected state and dramatic Alpine surroundings.

Abandoned buildings, like the Belvedere, have a universal appeal. Their decay tells stories of past glory and raises questions about their past. They offer a mysterious atmosphere, often enhanced by the contrast between human presence in the past and the silence of the present. Photographers and artists are drawn to this melancholy and raw aesthetic of decay. Moreover, such places symbolise the transience of human ambitions, evoking a powerful, almost philosophical reflection. Hotel Belvédère is a perfect example of this intriguing combination of history and mystery.