Petrus en Pauluskerk, Maassluis, Roman Catholic church in Maassluis, Netherlands
Petrus en Pauluskerk is a modern church built with a steel frame wrapped in white PVDF foil, situated next to the Nieuwe Waterweg waterway. The elliptical interior space accommodates around 300 worshippers in an arrangement that creates an intimate gathering space.
This church was built following a design competition launched by the Diocese of Rotterdam in 1996, which was won by architects Mari Baauw and René Olivier. The futuristic form represented a desire to create a modern place of worship for the end of the 20th century.
The western wall features a matte glass panel with the opening words of John's Gospel in transparent letters, a work by artist Stef Hagemeier. Visitors walking past can see these sacred words illuminated by natural light throughout the day.
The church is centrally located in Maassluis and is easily accessible by foot or public transport. Visitors will find parking nearby and should check service times before visiting.
The curved white foil covering reminds many visitors of the Sydney Opera House, leading locals to affectionately call it 'Sydney aan de Waterweg'. This comparison highlights how striking the futuristic shape appears in a Dutch harbor town.
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