Queen Máxima Visits Training Center for Traditional Crafts in Hengelo

On the afternoon of Tuesday, September 30, 2025, Queen Máxima of the Netherlands paid a working visit to the Cultural Fund (Cultuurfonds). The visit took place in Hengelo, at the RIBO (Restoration and Innovation in Construction) practical training center in Overijssel, where young people are trained in traditional crafts such as woodworking and stone carving. The Cultural Fund invests in heritage and the preservation of crafts and contributed to the establishment of the RIBO training center.

At RIBO, young people learn how to restore monuments using traditional techniques. Craftsmanship is essential for the preservation of windmills, historic gardens, castles, and estates. By investing in knowledge transfer and the training of artisanal skills, the center makes a significant contribution to safeguarding Dutch cultural heritage.

Queen Máxima visited the RIBO workshop and spoke with young trainees, their teachers, and experienced craftspeople. The students demonstrated their work in fields such as woodworking and furniture restoration. The Queen also met with heritage specialists and representatives of heritage organizations to discuss various aspects of restoration practices.