Religious hotspot
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Wow, it is really beautiful here...
Maastricht is proud to be the home of many religious hotspots. These are special locations for reflection, where you can count your blessings. Even if you are not a religious person, this is an impressive experience to embark on while in Maastricht. We would be more than happy to inspire you...
Religious or not, the sheer number of monasteries, chapels, and churches in Maastricht are sure to blow you away. Maastricht was a religious hotspot in the Middle Ages, and the city’s protective ramparts made it a safe haven for defenceless monks. The tomb of the bishop and saint Servatius under the Sint Servaasbasiliek (Basilica of St Servatius) attracted millions of pilgrims to the city.
You can still feel that mystical, medieval atmosphere in numerous monasteries and church buildings. The imposing Basilica of Our Lady is one of the most enchanting places in the city. Every day, the effigy of Our Lady, Star of the Sea looks over hundreds of candles lit by worshippers.
Basilica of St Servatius
The Basilica of St Servatius on Vrijthof square is the oldest church in the Netherlands. Its crypt houses the shrine of St Servatius from 1160. The coffin, featuring decorative biblical figures in gilded copper and gemstone, is a major medieval work of art. Have a look in the church’s enclosed garden to see ‘Grameer’: the colossal, ancient church bell. Maastricht’s ‘grandmother’ awakens on religious feast days, and her chimes can be heard from up to six kilometres away.
Great reading material on the past
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German Maastricht
German Maastricht
Maastricht borders on both Belgium and Germany, and you can see this at many locations. Read this blog and discover all the German influences in the city.
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French Maastricht
French Maastricht
The French influence on Maastricht is so clear that you can even hear it in the local language. Join a Frenchman on a journey to discover French influences here...
Dominicanenkerk church
Of course, not all listed church buildings have retained their religious function. Some of have been repurposed as shops, accommodation, or cultural venues – so there’s plenty for you to see and do! The centuries-old Dominicanenkerk church is now home to Boekhandel Dominicanen bookshop, voted the most beautiful bookshop in the world by the British media. In 2018, this was the most visited church in the Netherlands with 750,000 visitors.
Visit the Dominicanen church
Kruisherenklooster
Architect Henk Vos transformed the gothic Kruisherenklooster (Crosiers monastery) and church into the 5* Kruisherenhotel: a delight for lovers of modern architecture and design. We highly recommend visiting this hotel during your stay in Maastricht. While an overnight stay here is not required, a paying a visit to the bar for a lovely glass of wine is definitely worth your time...
View the Kruisherenhotel
Discover Maastricht - Places of interest in Maastricht.
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Sint Pieters hill
Sint Pieters hill
Luikerweg 80
6212 NH MaastrichtMaastrichtThis southernmost part of the Netherlands, between Maastricht and Belgium, is almost un-Dutchly beautiful. Experience tranquility and nature's joy during a visit to this spot, just a stone's throw away from the city center.
Show detailsvan Sint Pieters hill -
The Meuse
The Meuse
MaastrichtMaastrichtWith Maastricht being named after the river, you can imagine that this landscape feature plays an important part in the city’s identity.
Show detailsvan The Meuse
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Religious hotspot
Until 1100 AD
A safe haven for defenceless monks.
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Early industrial city
Early industrial city
19th century
The oldest industrial city in the Netherlands
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International university city
International university city
After 1969
Intellectuals go to Maastricht
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SOUVENIR
SOUVENIR
Get yourself a
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MUSEUM
MUSEUM
Visit a
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CRETACEOUS SEA
CRETACEOUS SEA
Back to the
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MIDDLE AGES?
MIDDLE AGES?
What was life like in the
