Apeldoorn has a large number of beautiful old churches and historic cemeteries. These play an important role in our municipality. The municipality of Apeldoorn considers it important that these sites and buildings are preserved, so that they can continue to be used and their heritage and cultural-historical value can be safeguarded.
Given the changes taking place in our society, this is not a given. Fewer people are attending church. As a result, church buildings stand empty – sometimes visibly, sometimes not. As for cemeteries, there is a risk that graves may be cleared where the gravestone has cultural and historical value. We want to prevent this, because it would mean that an important part of our heritage is no longer used and is at risk of being lost.
That is why Apeldoorn City Council has drawn up a vision for the future of these churches and cemeteries. This was done in collaboration with church owners and cemetery managers. The vision outlines all the churches and cemeteries within the municipality. It also describes the challenges faced by owners and managers, as well as the opportunities available for the current and future use of the buildings and grounds.
An implementation plan has been included in the outlook for the future. This sets out the next steps the council will take. You can request the appendices by emailing kerkenvisie@apeldoorn.nl.
View ‘Future Prospects for Ecclesiastical Heritage and Cemeteries in Apeldoorn’ (PDF, 742 kB)
The transformation ladder, as used in the ‘Future Outlook for Church Heritage and Cemeteries’ report, is a concept developed by Kaader Kerkadvies B.V.
Do you have any questions or would you like more information? Please get in touch with us.
Email: cultuur-erfgoed@apeldoorn.nl
