Norwegian Seamen's Church

The Norwegian Seamen's Church (Sjømannskirken in Rotterdam) is a church in Rotterdam, located at Westzeedijk next to the entrance of Het Park.

In the port city, there are various foreign seamen's churches, including those from all Scandinavian countries and England. They serve as a kind of refuge for sailors, where they can fulfill their religious duties and also relax in a pleasant environment. The pastoral work organized by the Norwegian church among Norwegian sailors in Rotterdam began in the 1880s. Initially, there was no dedicated space, and they had to use facilities from friendly organizations.

On October 3, 1941, the living quarters partially burned down due to a British incendiary bomb; the pastor and his family had to stay elsewhere for a few years, but the damage could be repaired. The church space itself suffered little damage and was able to remain in use. Since 1999, the wooden church, which is the largest wooden structure in the Netherlands, has been a national monument.

The annex is used for gatherings of the Norwegian community in the Netherlands. Every year on May 17, the Norwegian National Day is celebrated. On the second Thursday in November, a large Christmas market is held annually, where Norwegian smørbrød and kake (cake) are for sale, among other things. Courses on the Norwegian language are also offered. The shop sells Norwegian products. Services are still held in the church.

Wandeloverzicht