Peter Breukink discussed how reusing old churches that have been deconsecrated can attract visitors and help preserve historical buildings. He explained that around 130 churches close each year in the Netherlands due to declining attendance. However, repurposing churches, such as for theaters, art spaces, or restaurants, can draw new audiences to support the maintenance of the buildings. Breukink highlighted several churches in the Netherlands that have found success attracting tourists through new functions that make the monuments accessible and provide novel experiences.

1. KEYNOTE
PETER BREUKINK
Extended Use Attracts Visitors
FRH Conference in Vicenza
9th Nov. 2016

2. Extended Use Attracts Visitors
Peter Breukink,
director of Stichting Oude
Groninger Kerken

3. 130 churches per year closing

4. Loss of public function of churches

5. The church as place to come together

6. Does new use attract visitors?

7. Almost fifty years of experience

8. 1969: secularization and shrinkage

9. Decay

10. Saving churches in a private organization

11. 85 churches, 2 synagogues

12. Wehe: re-use as a regional theatre

13. The old pulpit

14. New vault painting

15. Conservation is bound to usage

16. The role of the monumental interior

17. 17th century church of Kiel-Windeweer

18. How can a re-used church attract tourists?

19. Three functions that make re-used churches
valuable for tourists:
• A new and sensational function
• An accessible monument
• A combination of seansational and accessible

20. Dominican Maastricht

21. Waanders Zwolle

22. Klein-Wetsinge

23. An open church / regional food

24. In the hood of the church...

25. …there’s a spectacular viewing point

26. Succesfull as a touristic attraction