Aberfan 60 – The Days After

New Exhibition Marks 60 Years Since the Aberfan Disaster.

Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery will host a major new exhibition commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Aberfan Disaster, featuring a remarkable collection of photographs documenting the resilience and recovery of the Aberfan community in the months following the tragedy.

Aberfan 60 – The Days After officially opens on 12 September 2026 and runs until 1 November 2026. The exhibition showcases the work of acclaimed photographer Chuck Rapoport, whose intimate and moving images capture everyday life, remembrance and resilience as the community began the long process of rebuilding after unimaginable loss.

Presented at Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery, the exhibition offers visitors a unique opportunity to reflect on the lasting impact of the disaster while gaining a deeper understanding of the strength and determination shown by the people of Aberfan during one of the most challenging periods in the village's history.

Kelly Powell, Museums Manager, said: “As we mark sixty years since the Aberfan Disaster, it is vital that we continue to create opportunities for reflection, remembrance and learning. Chuck Rapoport's photographs offer a powerful insight into the months that followed the disaster, capturing both the profound grief experienced by the community and the extraordinary resilience that helped shape Aberfan's recovery. We are honoured to share this important exhibition and the stories it preserves.”

Chuck Rappapport, said: "Sixty years ago, Aberfan was only a dot on the map of South Wales. Hardly anyone would have any reason to visit except to drive through on their way to Merthyr Tydfil or the Brecon Beacons. That all changed on the morning of Friday 21st October.

“When I had beseeched the Managing Editor of LIFE magazine to take a great leap of faith to send me, a relatively new photographer, off to a world I knew nothing about, not only did I accomplish what I set out to do with my cameras, but I made lifelong friends. 

“I am honoured that this exhibition is taking place at this important time of reflection, having captured the overwhelming sadness of the village as well as the joy of rebirth."

The exhibition forms part of wider commemorations marking sixty years since the disaster and aims to ensure that the experiences of those affected continue to be remembered by future generations.

A special launch event will take place on Thursday 10 September, ahead of the exhibition opening to the public on 12 September 2026. The exhibition will remain on display until 1 November 2026.

Exhibition Details
Venue: Cyfarthfa Castle Museum & Art Gallery, Merthyr Tydfil
Exhibition Dates: 12 September to 1 November 2026