Photo Journal Monday: Felipe Romero Beltrán - Magdalena

José, a local fisherman is trying to search with his feet for remains in the river. © Felipe Romero Beltrán

Project: Magdalena

In the 1960s, an armed-conflict began in Colombia between mafias, paramilitary groups and armed guerrillas such as the FARC movement, who were all fighting to influence the decisions made by the government. The war ended in 2016, when the government and the FARC signed an historical peace deal. The bodies of many of the victims killed during the years of war were often mutilated and then thrown in the Magdalena River: a river that has been fundamental for the nation, it is a vital water source and feeds entire villages. Fishermen from the Magdalena River in Colombia do not only fish animals. In their nets fall these bodies or parts of them. Dragged along the river, the corpses arrived close to the villages that live on the riversides. During years, the local populations have practiced religious rituals to gain the favors of the dead. 

Magdalena is a project that explores the processes of reconciliation in the post-conflict era in Colombia. The story is located in an area full of magic and at the same time a palpable desire for reconciliation and memory with the past. 

Magdalena River © Felipe Romero Beltrán

Whirlpools where bodies emerge. © Felipe Romero Beltrán

© Felipe Romero Beltrán

The bodies arrive at the cemetery to be buried and try to be identified. If this is not possible, a new name is given to them. © Felipe Romero Beltrán

Birds are called "Cucaracheros." They visit the cemetery when unidentified bodies still have meat to feed them. © Felipe Romero Beltrán

Funeral representations on the riverbanks. © Felipe Romero Beltrán