Between volcanoes and the Banda sea

The Banda Islands.

Remote, small and forgotten by many.

During a sailing journey through Eastern Indonesia, we stopped at this isolated archipelago - something I had been looking forward to.

The Banda Islands hold a significant place in history. They were a focal point during the colonial era, particularly under Dutch rule, when the global spice trade brought immense interest - and devastating consequences.

As a Dutch national walking through these islands, the experience felt surreal. I could feel the weight of the past here. Though I’m not someone who’s easily moved, being in this place confronted me with a history that felt both distant and very personal.

In this photo series, I document the views from Fort Belgica, a Dutch stronghold built during colonial times.

The images capture not only the island’s beauty but also serve as a quiet reflection on a complex shared history.