"Twister Towers" and a Migration Marvel: Rotterdam's Fenix Museum Steals the Show
Rotterdam introduces an art center as its latest cultural attraction
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey in the bustling city of Rotterdam! The Dutch metropolis has a brand-new attraction that's sure to leave you spellbound: Fenix, a compelling museum nestled in the heart of the historic port area, shouts migration's story in modern art's language.
Bringing the city's rich tapestry of stories to life, Fenix, which officially opened its doors on May 16, 2025, finds its home on the Katendrecht peninsula alongside the majestic River Maas 14.
A Museum Rooted in the Heartbeat of Migration
Fenix stands as a testament to the universal, ongoing, and profoundly human narrative of migration. The museum's director, Anne Kremers, describes it as an immersive exploration of "migration as a journey." It's an experience made all the more poignant by the presence of Queen Maxima, a celebrated Argentine migrant herself who immigrated to the Netherlands over two decades ago 2.
An Architectural Marvel: The Tornado
Fenix's breathtaking architecture is the brainchild of MAD Architects and Bureau Polderman, contributing to the firm's European debut 1. But it's the remarkable double-helix staircase, christened the "Tornado," that undoubtedly steals the show. This architectural gem serves not only as a functional element, allowing visitors to ascend from the ground floor through a glass rooftop to an observation deck, but also as a symbolic nod to the dynamic, swirling movements bound to the migration narrative 14.
Beyond an Art Museum: A Diverse Cultural Hub
Beyond offering a treasure trove of historic and contemporary artworks, personal belongings, and photographs 2, Fenix also dashes as a lively cultural hub. The 2,275-square-meter public plaza on the ground floor, referred to as the Plein, invites visitors from all walks of life to join in community gatherings, performances, and culinary adventures that celebrate Rotterdam's vibrant multicultural spirit 1.
Tantalize your taste buds at the Granucci Gelateria, an iconic artisanal ice-cream establishment dating back to 1929, or savor mouthwatering dishes at O Café and Bakery, helmed by Turkish Michelin-starred chef Maksut Aşkar 1.
The Tale of a City Reimagined
Furthermore, Fenix is funded by the Droom en Daad Foundation and serves as a cultural gem in the ongoing City Harbour urban regeneration project, which encompasses the development of a new city park 2. The museum is a living, breathing ode to the migration stories that have shaped Rotterdam and continue to resonate with global audiences today.
So come and discover the heartbeat of Fenix, where architecture, art, and culture intertwine to create a mesmerizing blend that tells the story of the millions of souls who once set sail from Rotterdam's historic port in search of the unknown—and all who have ever aspirated to follow in their footsteps.
Participants within the Rotterdam community are encouraged to engage with the diverse cultural offerings at Fenix, a living, breathing tribute to migration stories, which extends beyond an art museum and includes a fashion-and-beauty shop, a home-and-garden store, and a travel agent, all reflecting the transformative lifestyles of migrants. In the bustling Plein, individuals can enjoy artisanal ice cream from Granucci Gelateria, taste delectable dishes at O Café and Bakery helmed by Turkish Michelin-starred chef Maksut Aşkar, and take part in community events that celebrate the multicultural spirit of Rotterdam.
