For the first time, there is also a greenhouse on the Elandsgracht. In 2021, the initiative was started by Rikko Voorberg on Mercatorplein. There are now three greenhouses in the city, the third on Dapperplein. “There are people who are lonely, especially during the holiday period, and that is why we have created a place where everyone is welcome and where people can light a candle or write a ribbon,” says greenhouse coordinator Tessel Kirpensteijn.
Greenhouse in 24 cities
There are now three locations in Amsterdam and a greenhouse in 24 Dutch cities. And people know where to find the greenhouses, also on the Elandsgracht. “I didn’t go here with any premeditation, but I saw him and thought I should take a look,” says a visitor. “I stepped inside, lit a candle and something struck me. It is the Elandsgracht, a super busy artery in the city, but here there is peace, tranquility and space. Super beautiful.”
People regularly enter the greenhouse, mainly out of curiosity. “I’ve never heard of it before, I pass by here and I think it’s great,” said one woman. “It’s nice that society is increasingly paying attention to grief and loss.”
The greenhouse will be there until Sunday, December 28 and is open every day between 12 noon and 8 p.m.