Cosa vedere a Maastricht

Commonly known as the Star of the Sea, after an old title for the Virgin Mary, this Romanesque church was largely built in the 11th and 12th century. Although no archaeological research has been carried out, historians believe earlier churches stood on the same spot before. Large parts of the church treasures were lost when the city became part of the First French Republic.…

The museum is the foremost museum of Old Masters and contemporary art in the province of Limburg. The contemporary art collection contains works by an international group of artists, including Sol LeWitt. In addition to contemporary paintings, the collection also includes projections and gallery-sized installations.…

This basilica is believed to be built on top of the grave of Saint Servatius. The first known bishop of the Netherlands, he is said to have died here in the 4th century. The current grand, Romanesque structure in the shape of a cross was first built around the year 1000, and substantially expanded over the centuries. Pope John Paul II made the church a basilica after his visit here in 1985.…

Before the restoration of the Derlon Hotel started, Maastricht's city archeologists undertook an extensive survey of the site. The Roman finds, from the 2nd, 3rd and 4th century, are considered that important that it was decided to conserve them and exhibit these to interested parties.…

This famous square is considered by many to be the beating heart of the old city. It features the massive St Servaas Church and St Jan's Cathedral and hosts a range of large festivals throughout the year. The Carnival before Lent is an amazing occasion where (it seems) the whole city dresses up in costume and parties until the early hours.…

The museum outlines the natural history of southern Limburg. Modern displays offer an insight into both the recent and distant past. Among the museum's highlights are the remains of enormous Mosasauriers and Giant Turtles found in marlstone at the St Pietersberg caverns.…

The fairly large market square has been the stage for markets for centuries, and still houses goods markets on Wednesdays and Fridays. It's a lively square, surrounded by cafés, shops and eateries, but also home to the 17th century Town Hall.…

Local marlstone mine with over 20,000 passages dug out over centuries, used as shelter during sieges and bombings. Tours essential; check website for details (English and Dutch times differ). Boats runs from the city centre with commentary pointing out interesting landmarks along the way.

The museum contains period rooms with mainly 17th and 18th century furnishings, including furniture, silver, porcelain and pottery, glassware and paintings. Two of the rooms have been decorated in the mid-18th century Liège-Maastricht Regence Style.

A network of bunkers on the west side of Maastricht from which soldiers fired at invaders; again, tours are essential.

south of the town centre, the wall includes the Helpoort (Hell's Gate), the oldest city gate in the Netherlands.