The Photography of Jesús Moncada
A journey through the photographic lens of Jesús Moncada, who sought to safeguard the collective memory of Mequinenza and its daily life before it was submerged by the Ebro River
Jesús Moncada and friends (circa 1960) by Jesús MoncadaMuseos de Mequinenza
Jesús Moncada (1941-2005) was a writer born in Mequinenza who witnessed the disappearance of the Old Town beneath the waters of the Ebro due to dam construction. Through his photography, he aimed to immortalize its inhabitants and preserve the collective memory before its demolition in 1970.
Cafe portrait (circa 1960) by Jesús MoncadaMuseos de Mequinenza
The image shows men seated in a bar gathering, sharing stories in the heart of Mequinenza. In a town of miners and navigators, cafes, bars, and taverns were more than just social spaces; they were refuges where people chatted, debated, and forged friendships.
Town square (circa 1960) by Jesús MoncadaMuseos de Mequinenza
As a child, Moncada listened to stories about the river and the town in his parents' shop. The anecdotes of customers already sparked his imagination, just as navigators, miners, and the stories that wove the soul of Mequinenza would later do.
Facade (circa 1960) by Jesús MoncadaMuseos de Mequinenza
Moncada's photography captures the essence and details of old Mequinenza. The grocery stores, with objects hanging at the entrance, not only offered products but also spoke of the social, daily life and history of the town.
Market (circa 1960) by Jesús MoncadaMuseos de Mequinenza
The market was a regular and traditional fixture at the corner of Calle de las Piedras and the church square in Mequinenza.
Portrait of children (circa 1960) by Jesús MoncadaMuseos de Mequinenza
Two young children sitting in front of a door enjoy the summer. Moncada sought to portray daily routines, moments of calm and intimacy that reveal the essence of everyday life, so close and so ephemeral in old Mequinenza.
Coffee bar (circa 1960) by Jesús MoncadaMuseos de Mequinenza
The image shows gatherings at the Café del Centro, located in the church square, where miners, "llaut" boat navigators, and farmers met to share stories. In the background, two cinema billboards are visible: those of Cine Goya and Cine Victoria.
Games (circa 1960) by Jesús MoncadaMuseos de Mequinenza
Mequinenza's vibrant social life unfolded in every corner. Tables, surrounded by animated conversations, laughter, and knowing glances, witnessed encounters between friends, as well as games and bets.
Movie schedule (circa 1960) by Jesús MoncadaMuseos de Mequinenza
Moncada also reflects the town's intense cultural life, accustomed to filling cinema halls—a showcase of dreams, stories, and entertainment.
Cobblestones (circa 1960) by Jesús MoncadaMuseos de Mequinenza
Moncada, attentive to detail, captured the soul of Mequinenza's old town before its disappearance. From the facades to the cobblestones of Calle de las Piedras, every corner became a visual testament to its heritage and every story.
Boat (circa 1960) by Jesús MoncadaMuseos de Mequinenza
Mequinenza's life was marked by its relationship with its rivers, especially the Ebro River. Sources of life since ancient times, they became an essential part of the town's identity and its daily existence.
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