Maastricht is the perfect place for a day trip and a longer walk through the streets in the centre. It is closed to cars, so strolling through the old town is very pleasant there. What is worth seeing?
Monuments of Maastricht
Sint Servaasbrug: the oldest bridge in the Netherlands, dating back to the 13th century.
Helpoort: or ‘gate of hell’, an impressive city gate with two towers, built around 1230, the oldest surviving building of its kind in the country.
Hoge Fronten: remains of the 17th and 18th century fortifications, city walls with towers.
Casemates: an underground network of tunnels, part of the city fortifications, stretching for miles under the city, which can be seen with a guide.
Vrijthof: the most popular square in Maastricht, where you can have a nice time in one of the many coffee shops or pubs.
Sint-Servaasbasiliek: the Basilica of Saint Servatius, the main church in the centre of Maastricht, located on the Vrijthof. A fine example of Romanesque architecture.
Spaans Gouvernement: “Spanish Government Building”, a 16th century building which houses a museum.
Hoofdwacht: “main watchtower”, a 17th century military guard building used as an exhibition space.
Generaalshuis: ‘general’s house’, a residence built in neoclassical style, now housing the city’s main theatre, the Theater aan het Vrijhof.
Onze Lieve Vrouweplein: another important square in the city centre, where the Basiliek van Onze-Lieve-Vrouw “Sterre der Zee” stands: Basiliek van Onze-Lieve-Vrouw “Star of the Sea”, a church built in the 11th-12th centuries, which is now one of the most important monuments of the Romanesque style in the world. The church houses the miraculous wooden statue of the Virgin Mary, Star of the Sea.
Markt: The town square, which underwent a major renovation in 2007. A place full of cafes and restaurants.
Town Hall: built in the 17th century, designed by Pieter Post, one of the finest examples of Dutch Baroque architecture.
Mosae Forum: a modern shopping centre with the largest collection of Citroën miniature models in the world.
Entre Delux: another shopping centre built in postmodern style. The design of the building has won many prestigious awards around the world.
Jekerkkwartier: a district of the city which takes its name from the Jekerk River flowing through it. It is a mixture of historic houses and the remains of the city walls, and there are also old university buildings.
Moving to Maastricht
If you are planning a move to Netherlands, and Maastricht in particular, be sure to read the article: Maastricht, the oldest city in Maastricht. You should also plan your move well, look for the best moving company to take care of your furniture and possessions, and you can get to know the city and its inhabitants.
