The Christmas decorations at Martini Ziekenhuis in the south of Groningen have had visitors scratching their heads
‘Is that correct?’ ‘Has someone got confused?’ are just some of the questions overheard at the Martini hospital in recent days- as reported by RTV Noord. The foyer of the hospital has been given a Christmas makeover, despite it currently being closer to the Summer Solstice than the festive season.
“Most people are completely surprised” says Maria Bueving, the Facilities Manager of the hospital. “But children actually think its quite normal that there is a Christmas tree- though we have noticed that almost everyone takes a moment when seeing it for the first time.”
The foyer of the hospital is now temporarily home to a fully-decorated Christmas tree, with baubles, lights, wreaths; and tinsel- the full package.
There is less confusion amongst staff, who know that the odd situation is merely a test in preparation for this year’s Christmas season. The suppliers to the hospital have already placed a number of Christmas items in the hospital, so that staff can choose their favourites for their department come December.
“Not every department has as much space, so we also have a half Christmas tree”, explained Bueving, “and this can go against the wall, or in a corner, and brighten up the room nicely.”
Next week a meeting will be held, so that managers can indicate their decorative preferences. After that, the hospital will stop being a small slice of Christmas in the middle of spring.
