The Making of the Cathedral: From Thorn to Temple

Take a deeper look into how the Cathedral of Thorns was built—thorn by thorn. Learn about the symbolism behind the structure, the local youth who helped create it, and the vision of artist Herman van Bergen.

Written by Marous Veldstam-Molenhof 

This story has been made possible by Prins Bernhard Cultuurfonds Caribisch Gebied 

Take a deeper look into how the Cathedral of Thorns was built-thorn by thorn. Learn about the symbolism behind the structure, the local youth who helped create it, and the vision of artist Herman van Bergen. 

At first glance, the Cathedral of Thorns appears like something from another world-a monumental labyrinth woven entirely from the unforgiving branches of the acacia tortuosa, known locally as sumpiña. But behind this architectural marvel lies a story of perseverance, collaboration, and vision. 

The idea came to life in the early 2000s, when artist Herman van Bergen began experimenting with thorn art. Inspired by nature’s resilience, he envisioned using Curaçao’s native thorn bushes-symbols of survival-to tell stories of history, struggle, and renewal. Over time, this vision grew into something much larger: a temple-like structure that would house contemporary art, performances, and spiritual reflection. 

What makes the Cathedral unique is not just its material, but its message. The structure incorporates religious and spiritual symbols from around the world-both modern and ancient-carved and placed within its walls. “It’s a monument to inclusion,” van Bergen says. “To the strength of nature, and to the creative spirit we all share.” 

Beyond its artistic value, the project became a vehicle for community building. Over 200 young people, many unemployed at the time, were hired and trained to help with its construction. In a sense, the building itself became a social sculpture-shaped not just by van Bergen’s hands, but by

The Making of the Cathedral: From Thorn to Temple 

the hands and stories of Curaçao’s youth. 

Today, the Cathedral is a living space-part museum, part theater, part sanctuary. Its illuminated thorn walls host art from visiting creators and serve as a powerful backdrop for performances, tours, and exhibitions. As the sun sets and the structure lights up, the shadows it casts reflect the deeper message at its core: from hardship, beauty can grow.