Mauritania – taking the ore train to the Sahara
16.04.26 - 16.04.26 18:30 - 20:00-
Some journeys begin with a simple occasion – and become an unforgettable experience. When his son set off for Cape Town on his bicycle, Chris Graf-Allgeier traveled to Mauritania to accompany him for part of the way. What followed was much more than a visit: it was a photographic exploration of a country full of contrasts, vastness, and dignity.
With his Leica, Graf-Allgeier immersed himself in the vibrant atmosphere of the camel market in Nouakchott, roamed the dusty streets of Nouadhibou, and ventured on an adventure on the legendary ore train – the freight train several kilometers long that winds its way through the Sahara like a steel ribbon. Amidst sand, heat, and endless horizons, images were created that not only document but also tell stories: of encounters, of silence, of movement.
In his 90-minute lecture on April 16 at 6:30 p.m. at Leica Welt, Chris Graf-Allgeier will share intense moments and personal impressions with you. He combines impressive photographs with authentic stories – calm, approachable, and with a trained eye for the essentials. Admission is 10 euros.
About the speaker
Chris Graf-Allgeier is a documentary photographer specializing in street and portrait photography. Having grown up with the Leitz and Leica brands through his family, he developed a keen sense of image composition and the decisive moment at an early age. He received his first camera—a Kodak Instamatic—at the age of 15, and photography has shaped his view of the world ever since.
After years of working with analog and digital systems, he has been photographing intensively with Leica since 2019. Today, his focus is no longer on technology, but on the people in front of the camera. His work is characterized by closeness, respect, and a clear, calm visual language. In addition to his photographic work, he is involved in Sternenkind photography, combining technical precision with human sensitivity