Glaspaleis > a look at culture

In the centre of the modern shopping town of Heerlen stands one of the thirteen most important architectural monuments in the Netherlands: Glaspaleis Heerlen. The building opened its doors in 1935 as ‘Modehuis Schunck’. The Heerlen architect, Frits P.J. Peutz (Heerlen, 1896-1974), proved himself as a true innovator with his design: he ‘packed’ his ‘stacked market’ in glass, with a large transparent glass-coated façade in fine metal profiles. The construction, visible from the outside, consists of beamless floors resting on white mushroom columns. The open and transparent Glaspaleis became the architectural eye-catcher of Heerlen from the very first day: a modern monument well worth visiting simply to experience its extraordinary architecture.

> a look at culture

Since September 2003, following impressive renovations under the management of architects Jo Coenen (Heerlen, 1949) and Wiel Arets (Heerlen, 1955), the Glaspaleis has gained a new purpose as ‘A look at culture’. In this extraordinary building, five cultural institutions, Filmhuis De Spiegel (cinema), Muziekschool Heerlen (music school), Openbare bibliotheek Heerlen (public library), Stadsgalerij Heerlen town galery), Vitruvianum [centre for architecture in the Euregion Maas-Rhine],  together with Glaspaleis Heerlen, provide a varied programme full of music, film, dance, literature, expressive art and architecture. Every day there is a show, film or exhibition to see, listen to or experience. The Café and Restaurant are for the culinary adventurers in search of a late breakfast, extensive lunch or dinner with a fantastic view of Heerlen.

> titles and awards

The extraordinary character of the Glaspaleis Heerlen is highly acclaimed worldwide. In 2002, the ‘Union of International Architects’ put the building on the world’s list of top twentieth century monuments. In 2004, the building won the “Bouwfonds Award for Vital Monuments” and in 2005, it won the Dutch Building Prize in the Projects category and the National Renovation Prize in the Utility Buildings category. The prophecy of the Dutch Building Prize’s jury appears to be coming true. The Glaspaleis Heerlen is growing into a living icon; the hundreds of visitors each day prove that!

> programme and guided tours

Guided tours can be organised upon request to see the Glaspaleis’ extraordinary sites. The costs are € 59.50 for groups up to a maximum of 20 people. Of course, you can enjoy a show or exhibition in the Glaspaleis before or after your tour; look further for our programme.