over de Doelen

heart of Rotterdam

De Doelen is a world-renowned concert hall and international congress centre in the heart of Rotterdam. In 2016 we celebrated our 50th anniversary. But the tradition of a concert hall with the name de Doelen in Rotterdam goes back much further: to 1697.

music for everyone

Its programming is extremely varied, ranging from true crowd-pullers to concerts catering to connoisseurs, and from children’s concerts to performances of world music, making de Doelen a music centre for all audiences.

home of international events

De Doelen also serves as a key venue in various international high-profile events, such as Classical:NEXT, Operadagen Rotterdam, International Film Festival Rotterdam, and the Gergiev Festival.

our history

The history of de Doelen dates back to the seventeenth century, when an orchestra of local musicians gave public concerts in what was then called ‘De Doele’. A new auditorium was opened in 1934, but was destroyed in the German bombing of Rotterdam in May 1940. The current Doelen building was not opened until 26 years later, in 1966. In 2000, new conference facilities were built on top of the roof and the old inner courtyard. The building is a listed monument and is considered a major symbol of Dutch reconstruction, giving it enormous cultural and historical value.

sustainability

We make a conscous effort to reduce our environmental impact. We are affiliated with 7 Square Endeavor, Green Key and Rotterdam Climate Initiative.

support de Doelen

With your help, we can continue to work for the musical development of our children, for a sustainable Rotterdam and for up and coming talent by offering them a stage to perform on. You can make a difference.