Photo Gallery
Step into the world of Before the Wall Came Down with this curated gallery of captivating photographs by Rupert Stebbings. Each image tells a story of life, resilience, and transformation during a crucial period in 20th-century history. Explore the unique spirit of the cities and regions Rupert traveled through, immortalized forever through his lens.
Belgrade
Due to the power of President Tito, Yugoslavia had remained outside of the full grasp of Moscow and was much lower on the scale of state control.
Budapest
Budapest had moved ahead of the curve in terms of reforms and democracy arriving. By 1991 there was an unquestionable 'Western' feel with much more relaxed atmosphere than most parts of Eastern Europe.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria by 1989 was still heavily entrenched in communism but fortunately that was to change rapidly. Plovdiv, the location of the commercial fairs, was known for little else.
DDR
East Germany was akin to Oceania in 1984 and I had the good fortune to visit on several occasions and spend time exploring with my hosts Micky & Holga.
Moscow April 1989
In the middle of my post-graduate studies the phone went and I was invited to join an expedition to Moscow - Medinco's largest undertaking until that moment.
Moscow December 1989
A return to Moscow was highly unexpected but provided the opportunity to traverse the notorious winter road that had defeated both Napoleon and Hitler.
Poland
Poland was never more than a stepping stone on the way to Russia however tragic events during April 1989 changd all of that.
Romania 1989
Romania had always been a desired destination. Mysterious in the extreme it fascinated me and offered the opportunity to explore the country in depth - not to mention shake the hand of a dictator !
Romania 1991
I had long since finished with Eastern Europe, it was now being trampled all over by journalists and TV crews however the invitation to a surprise meeting changed all that.
