Gezicht op Mariënbad before 1894

Hendrik Herman van den Berg captured this view of Mariënbad in a photograph. The image presents the spa town nestled in a landscape, reflecting its historical and cultural significance in the late 19th century. Mariënbad was renowned as a destination for the European elite seeking health and leisure. This photograph invites us to consider the social dynamics of the era. Who had access to these spaces of healing and retreat, and what did it mean to be seen in such a place? Van den Berg's choice to frame the town from a distance obscures individual stories, prompting reflection on the collective experience of those who sought solace there. The monochrome tones evoke a sense of nostalgia, inviting us to reflect on the passage of time and the enduring human quest for well-being. How does this image speak to our current understanding of health, privilege, and the pursuit of leisure?