Schipperskerk, Former church complex in Papenhoven, Netherlands.
Schipperskerk is a former church settlement in Papenhoven comprising around 70 houses with the church building positioned at Sterre der Zee square. The area sits near RivierPark Maasvallei and provides a quiet residential setting with a small marina for boats.
The settlement developed as a church community for children of barge worker families attending a nearby boarding school. That school closed about two decades ago, transforming the character of the place.
The former church building now serves as an art studio and reception center hosting exhibitions and events. The space draws visitors interested in contemporary art activities and creative gatherings in this residential setting.
The area is accessible on foot and by bike through quiet residential streets. Visitors arriving by boat can moor nearby, as the marina accommodates smaller vessels in the surrounding waterways.
The conversion of the church building demonstrates how historic structures gain new purposes while keeping their distinctive form. Today artistic creativity and architectural heritage coexist within the same walls.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
