Rotterdam is set to host a temporary new eye-catcher: a giant staircase with 180 steps leading from Stationsplein, outside Rotterdam Central Station’s entrance, to the top of the Groot Handelsgebouw, an iconic building in the city’s history. The scaffolding system is a nod to 75 years of rebuilding the city, which is celebrated this year with the cultural event ‘Rotterdam celebrates the city!’. The Stairs will be officially opened on 16th May by Mayor Ahmed Aboutaleb and will remain open until 12th June. Everyone is welcome to visit from 10:00 to 22:00. Admission is free. The steps not only offer a progression of perspectives over the city as you climb, but also give access to the roof of the Groot Handelsgebouw.
Once at the top, a temporary observation deck gives you the opportunity to overlook the entire city. Also on the roof is the former cinema Kriterion, popular in the 1960s, which will open specially for the event to offer a wide variety of films, debates and performances. Furthermore, visitors will be able to enjoy refreshment facilities and find out more about the city and its development at the information point for the cultural event ‘Rotterdam celebrates the city!’. At 29 metres tall and 57 metres long, The Stairs offer an impressive landmark for ‘Rotterdam celebrates the city!’. The scaffolding responds to the angles of the Rotterdam Central Station, connecting the contemporary icon with a historic monument, whilst through its construction referencing the reconstruction that the city has experienced. Source and images by MVRDV.