by Convento de São Francisco de Mértola is a former Franciscan monastery overlooking the Guadiana River near the historic town of Mértola, in the Alentejo region of southern Portugal. Over the past decades it has gradually evolved into a place where creative work, everyday life and the exchange of ideas come together through the Convento de Mértola Residency.
The story of the Convento began in 1980, when the Zwanikken family arrived in Mértola and started restoring the abandoned monastery and its surrounding landscape. Over time, the restoration expanded beyond the buildings themselves. Gardens were created, water systems were rebuilt and the surrounding environment slowly regained its vitality.
Today the Convento welcomes artists, writers, researchers and other guests from around the world. Some arrive with specific projects. Others come in search of time, focus or a temporary change of pace. The residency provides space for both concentrated work and reflection.
The Convento is not a finished place. Buildings, gardens and landscape continue to change through use, care and the passing of time. This ongoing process remains an important part of its character.
CHRISTIAAN ZWANIKKEN
Christiaan Zwanikken is a Dutch artist whose connection to the Convento spans most of his life. As his artistic career developed during the 1990s, the Convento became increasingly connected to a wider international network of artists, writers and researchers. From these exchanges, the residency gradually emerged.
Alongside his own artistic work, Christiaan continues to guide the residency and its development. His interests in architecture, landscape and material transformation continue to influence both the programme and the broader development of the Convento.
CHERYL SCHURGERS
Cheryl Schurgers is a visual artist working with performative photography and image-making. She is responsible for much of the Convento’s visual identity and public presentation.
Alongside her own work, Cheryl oversees photography, social media and communication. Her long-standing involvement contributes to the atmosphere of the residency and the way guests experience the Convento.
LOUIS ZWANIKKEN
Louis Zwanikken is responsible for the care of the buildings, gardens and surrounding landscape. Through decades of practical experience, he has developed an deep knowledge of the Convento and its environment.
His work ensures the continuity of the place and supports the daily life of the residency.
GERALDINE ZWANIKKEN
Geraldine Zwanikken played an important role in the restoration of the Convento and the development of its gardens. Her lifelong interest in biodiversity, cultivation and landscape continues to be visible throughout the property.
Although no longer involved in daily operations, her influence remains present in many aspects of the Convento and its surroundings.