The Echo of Arches

• Photographer
  Natalia Slovinska
• Technical Info
  F/5, 1/100sec, Iso-1000, 50mm
• Photo Date
  14-06-2025

In the heart of Antwerp stands the old bourse “Handelsbeurs” – once the cradle of modern finance, now a cathedral of symmetry and light. Built originally in 1531 as the world’s first purpose-designed stock exchange, it set the standard for trade halls across Europe. Step inside, and you’re met with a rhythmic forest of columns – Gothic arches repeating like verses in a silent chant. Between shadow and structure, history and harmony, the Handelsbeurs reveals itself not just as architecture, but as a memory in motion – a place where trade once echoed, and beauty now lingers.

I am an amateur photographer from Slovakia, based in the Netherlands. Photography is my passion and personal journey – one that I pursue with a deep focus on architecture. My attention goes to the classic architectonic styles where I find symmetry and lines, and to modern architecture in which I like to notice minimalistic details and unique framing. I approach my work intuitively rather than technically, allowing curiosity and experimentation to guide me. This openness leads me to explore all possibilities.