Garrison of Maastricht
-
Garrison city
The history of Maastricht gets really interesting during this period. During this time, the city is shaped into how you see it today as a result of war after war and many intermittent sieges. Many historic artefacts can be admired in their full glory. Will you join us?
Military history
On Vrijthof square, you’ll find the former ‘Hoofdwacht’ (Main Guardhouse) In the 18th century, this was where the military changed guards. The high-ranking men in the army would be based here permanently, guarding the keys to the seven gates. Although you won’t encounter any military personnel here, the building can still be admired from the outside. Foot soldiers at that time lived in high barracks. Some of Maastricht’s street names, such as ‘Achter de Barakken’ (Behind the Barracks) and ‘Hoge Barakken’ (High Barracks), bear the traces of this history.
Roman bridge
The Roman bridge attracted the first real urbanites, as soldiers built a fortress between Vrijthof square and the Meuse. Safely within the walls of the fortress, they lived in wooden houses between the stone temples and bathhouses. Much of this Roman past is hidden underground. But there are lots of places in Maastricht where you can catch a glimpse of it. Between the end of the 16th and the beginning of the 18th century, thousands of uniformed soldiers marched daily along Maastricht’s cobblestone roads to protect the city against intruders. Its strategic location – on the Meuse and ‘Via Belgica’ – turned Maastricht into a major garrison. A large proportion of its residents were soldiers under alternating Spanish, French, or Dutch command.
D’Artagnan
D’Artagnan might just be the Frenchman who is best known across the globe, thanks to the many stories and tales that feature him. This famous musketeer was born in Lupiac in South France and during his lifetime, he journeyed through Europe on horseback in service of Louis XIV. His career was abruptly ended when he was hit by a musket round during a siege of the fortress city of Maastricht. D’Artagnan is famous the world over and has a rich history in which Maastricht plays a prominent role. Maastricht’s city part features a statue of D’Artagnan.
Discover Maastricht
-
City tour: The Historic heart of Maastricht (start Centrum)
City tour: The Historic heart of Maastricht (start Centrum)
until 18 October 2025
This tour is the most popular and best known in Maastricht, and for good reason. One route joins together...
Fun facts - Blogs and great stories
-
BLOG: Oui, c'est Maastricht!
BLOG: Oui, c'est Maastricht!
The French influences in Maastricht can be found and heard throughout the city. Even Maastricht’s local dialect shows the city’s international nature.
-
BLOG: Buenos dias Maastricht
BLOG: Buenos dias Maastricht
Maastricht is awash with Spanish influences as well! This blog explains where you need to be and what you need to look out for during your visit to Maastricht.
-
Must-see: Het Frontenpark
Must-see: Het Frontenpark
A special park in Maastricht. While this location may seem brand new, the foundations of this area in the Sphinxkwartier district have been here for a long time.
From a long, long time ago to now - The timeline
-
Garrison city
16th - 19th century
Thousands of soldiers marching on the cobblestones
-
Early industrial city
Early industrial city
19th century
The oldest industrial city in the Netherlands
-
International university city
International university city
After 1969
Intellectuals go to Maastricht
