Photo essay: Antakya residents rebuilding a year after Turkey earthquake

The once bustling bazaars in the city have become a symbol of collective strength

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  A young girl outside her house in Antakya, Turkey, one of few left standing in the neighbourhood after the earthquake. All photos: Antonie Robertson / The National

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  A balloon seller on a busy street lined with optometrists and pharmacies

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  A seller makes sandwiches in the central bazaar

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  Stallholders trade against a backdrop of destroyed buildings that were once shops and homes

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  In February 2023, a 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit Turkey and Syria

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  Stalls and shops in the old market, which was partially destroyed by the earthquake, have been rebuilt and restocked with goods

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  A salep seller with his many customers

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  Sundried peppers and eggplant are ingredients used in dolma, a popular Turkish dish

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  Stalls among the ruins of an apartment block

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  A young boy outside his home, which survived the quake

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  Men play backgammon in the central bazaar

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  An orange tree in the half-destroyed courtyard of a family home still bears fruit

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  A young girl carrying nargis flowers, which represent creativity, forgiveness and vitality

One year on from the 7.8-magnitude earthquakes that devastated the southern parts of Turkey and northern Syria, residents of Antakya, in the Hatay province of Turkey, have had to endure a profound transformation in their physical landscape and daily living conditions, as well as their shared outlook on the future.

However, amid the sombre aftermath of the tragedy, a vibrant spirit of unity has emerged, painting a resilient portrait of daily life in the city.

Although scarred after the events of February 6 last year, the once bustling bazaars have become a symbol of collective strength and a meeting place for young and old again, a way to recapture the life and energy of the city before the devastating event.

Initially closed after the earthquake, store owners have returned and rebuilt. Some have created makeshift temporary stalls, others have built with a view to recapturing what existed before. Salep vendors are swarmed by clients eager for the sweet traditional drink made from orchid flowers and milk.

Bakers from the many "pastane" shops shout out their offers while other visitors prefer to buy freshly toasted sandwiches. Local chefs, using ingredients sourced from the region's fertile lands, create age-old dishes that symbolise the heritage of the surrounding areas.

As night descends, the city lights, dimmed by the earthquake's aftermath, flicker back to life. Neon signs and lantern-lit stalls are open for business again, echoing the resilient spirit evident throughout Antakya. The sounds of reconstruction, always in the background, do not overpower the colourful mosaic of the people's determination and hope for their future.