Manifesta – The European Nomadic Biennial takes place every two years in a different city or region in Europe. It brings together architecture and urbanism with contemporary art and culture and is dedicated to addressing pressing social and political issues. In doing so, it deliberately engages with local realities, challenges, and visions.
Starting in June 2026, Manifesta 16 Ruhr will be hosted in various cities across Germany’s Ruhr region. At the heart of this edition lies a specific aspect of societal transformation: the handling of vacant and repurposed church buildings. Churches have long shaped the urban landscape – not only due to their often monumental architecture and prominent locations, but also as spiritual and social anchors in their neighborhoods, extending beyond religious functions.
But society has changed. Immigration from non-Christian regions, a decline in religious affiliation, and demographic shifts have led to a significant drop in church attendance. Experts estimate that one in three churches will ultimately be decommissioned – perhaps even more. This growing number of vacant or demolished churches stands in contrast to an increasing societal demand for spaces of social interaction, community, and cultural identity.
On behalf of Manifesta 16 Ruhr, nexus conducted six workshops as part of the pre-biennial process, enabling residents of the region to share their experiences, thoughts, and ideas about cultural life in their cities and neighborhoods. At the center of these workshops was the question of what role cultural and social activities can play in former church buildings – now and in the future.
Manifesta 16 Ruhr thus offers a framework in which communities can develop new approaches for revitalizing these abandoned buildings and their surroundings, tailored to the current needs and aspirations of the people who live locally and are actively engaged in their communities. The outcomes of these workshops will serve as a foundation for shaping the Biennial’s program.
Duration: 04/2025 – 08/2025
Client: Manifesta 16 Ruhr gGmbH
Team: Dr. Christine von Blankenburg (Project manager), Katharina Fender
Graphic: Manifesta 16 Ruhr / NODE Berlin Oslo