Heilige Huisjes in Nieuw-West

Cycle along with guide Jasmin Šporer to four of the twenty-five churches in Nieuw-West. Experience the differences between the buildings and discover their role for the neighborhoods. The church buildings from the period 1945-1970 tell the story about the creation of this reconstruction area. They are great examples of new spatial and socio-cultural insights from that time. For urban planner and architect Cornelis van Eesteren, the church as a building volume was an ingredient in which he brought variety to the 'monotonous' neighborhoods dominated by housing. With their socio-cultural role, churches also stimulated community building.

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During the bike ride along four churches in Slotermeer, we look at urban planning, architecture, religion and visual arts and experience the differences between the buildings. The two Roman Catholic churches were inspired by the early Christian basilica. For the Protestant churches, austere Reformed houses of the previous centuries served as examples. The two architectural styles differ as much as the differences between views on tradition and the modern. The church to which the faithful belonged was also made clear by monumental art, such as integrated mosaics, concrete reliefs and glass appliqué.

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The architectural sacred place concept of that time is now a heritage issue. All four buildings are municipal monuments. New destinations and imminent destruction raise new questions and emotions. Are the churches, so carefully arranged by Van Eesteren on his map, still sacred? What is the future of church buildings in Nieuw-West?

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More information:

We visit the following two places of worship both inside and outside: Saint Catherine (architects A. Evers and O.J. Sarlemijn, 1955, originally Roman Catholic, now Syrian Orthodox) and Our Lady of Lourdes (architect M.J. Granpré Molière, 1956, originally Roman Catholic, now withdrawn from worship).

We only look at the outside of the third and fourth church buildings: De Hoeksteen (architect P. Zanstra, 1963, originally Dutch Reformed, now Baptist Church) and De Olijftak (architect K. Sijmons, 1956, originally Mennonite, now Moroccan mosque).

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The bike ride ends around 4 p.m. On Saturday, February 15, under the guidance of architect Judith Korpershoek, it will be possible to view the renewed interior of the De Bron church building (architect J. Brouwer, 1965) that was built according to her design.

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Despite all the good preparations, it is still possible that access to a church building is not possible. It is desirable to wear appropriate clothing when visiting the prayer room. Please note that when visiting the mosque, you'll need to take of your shoes at the door. Thicker socks are recommended!

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Please note:

You need your own bike for this bike ride.

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Practical information

time 13:30 - 16:00

Accessibility Watch  the accessibility of the Van Eesteren Museum here.

Language of communication Dutch

Location The bike ride starts at the Van Eesteren Museum and ends at the last church building.

‍Tickets can only be purchased in advance via the website.