Coronavirus Pandemic

The coronavirus pandemic, which began in late 2019 and rapidly spread across the globe in early 2020, marked one of the most significant public health crises of the 21st century. First identified in Wuhan, China, COVID-19 was declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization in March 2020. Countries around the world imposed unprecedented restrictions, including border closures, lockdowns, curfews and social distancing measures, in an effort to slow the spread of the virus. Health systems were placed under immense pressure, while millions of people faced economic hardship due to business closures and disruptions to daily life.

Turkey confirmed its first COVID-19 case on March 11, 2020, the same day the WHO declared the outbreak a global pandemic. In the months that followed, authorities introduced a series of measures including weekend curfews, travel restrictions between cities, remote education, and mandatory mask policies in public spaces. Hospitals reorganized their operations to cope with rising case numbers, and healthcare workers became the most visible figures of the crisis, working long hours under difficult conditions. Public spaces that were once crowded — from city squares to markets and mosques — fell unusually silent.

The photographs taken in Turkey during this period document a society navigating uncertainty and resilience. Empty streets, closed shop shutters and socially distanced queues illustrate the profound transformation of everyday life. At the same time, images of healthcare professionals in protective gear, municipal workers disinfecting public areas, and citizens adapting to new routines reflect collective efforts to confront an invisible threat.

Beyond its immediate health impact, the pandemic reshaped social, economic and cultural life both globally and in Turkey. It accelerated digital transformation, changed work patterns and redefined public awareness of health and safety. This photo series captures not only a moment of crisis, but also a historic period that altered the rhythm of life worldwide and left a lasting imprint on communities across Turkey.