Treinstation van Matola in Mozambique c. 1886s

This photograph captures the Treinstation van Matola in Mozambique, and was taken by Manuel Romão Pereira, who passed away in 1894. The image provides a window into a period marked by European colonialism. The railway itself symbolizes the imposition of foreign influence, transforming landscapes and societies to serve colonial interests. The station becomes a point of intersection between cultures, and a site that carries the weight of power dynamics and economic exploitation. Look at the people standing near the building, seemingly frozen in time by the camera. They represent the human element within this infrastructure, individuals whose lives were directly impacted. The photograph prompts us to consider their stories, their resistance, and their resilience in the face of profound change. It serves as a reminder of the complex and often painful legacies of colonialism, inviting contemplation on identity, history, and the lasting impact on society.