Fenix Museum

Opened in the spring of 2025 in Rotterdam, the FENIX Museum of Migration is already becoming a cultural icon.

Located in a historic warehouse, San Francisco Warehouse, dating back to 1923, the museum has been transformed into a modern cultural hub. The building was once part of the largest warehouse in the world, and was vital for the Holland America Line, which helped millions of migrant’s journey to America in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Over time, the building went through many changes, especially after WWII when Rotterdam was bombed. It was then rebuilt as two separate buildings, Fenix I and Fenix II.

The museum’s design is by MAD Architects, a renowned firm from China, led by Ma Yansong. Known for blending old and new in their work, MAD Architects turned this industrial warehouse into a modern museum.

The building still has its original brick walls and large steel structures, giving it an industrial feel. Now, it stands as a symbol of transformation, both for the city and the people who passed through its docks.

One of the museum’s most remarkable features is the Tornado, a 30-meter-high, double-helix staircase. This dynamic structure spirals up through the museum’s atrium, piercing the glass roof and leading to a panoramic viewing deck that offers stunning views of the city.

This structure represents the complexities and challenges of the migration process, from departure to arrival in a new place.

These updates make the museum not just a place to learn, but an architectural experience.

The museum

The museum explores the migration stories of people who arrived in Rotterdam from around the world.

From the first Chinese immigrants in the early 1900s to workers coming after WWII, the museum captures stories of hope, struggle and transformation.

Rotterdam’s port played a crucial role in global migration, and the Fenix museum highlights how this movement shaped the city’s identity.

Fenix Museum hosts a variety of exhibitions exploring the themes of migration, identity, and movement. One of the highlights is the “All Directions: Art That Moves You” exhibition, which features 150 artworks from both historical and contemporary artists.

On the ground floor, visitors can explore the “Suitcase Maze” a unique installation of 2,000 suitcases donated by individuals, symbolizing the journeys of migrants. Additionally, the Plein, serves as a community gathering spot, where visitors can enjoy food, art, performances, and even participate in Dutch-language lessons and cultural events.

The museum also features the “Family of Migrants” exhibition, which showcases 194 photographs from 55 countries, exploring the human side of migration through striking portraits and documentary images.

Besides the exhibitions, the Fenix Museum of Migration also hosts events, workshops, and activities, encouraging dialogue between different cultures.

Katendrecht area

The Fenix Museum is located in Katendrecht, a neighborhood with a rich immigrant history.

Katendrecht was once vibrant red-light district; it was known for its lively restaurants and nightlife but was a marginalized area with social problems. Now it has been transformed into a lively cultural area.

It was home to one of Europe’s first Chinatowns, and it served as a starting point for many Europeans emigrants heading to the Americas and other destinations in search of a new life.

Piece at Museum Fenix — One of the pieces at the museum

This gives the museum even more significance, as it stands in the heart of this diverse community. It not only preserves history but also celebrates the resilience and diversity that migration brings.

The museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and on Fridays from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.

Fenix Museum. Paul Nijghkade 5 , 3072 AT, Rotterdam. Visit their site on this link.

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