Caves Zonneberg Sint-Pietersberg (Saint Peter's Mountain)

Miles of history

Caves Zonneberg is part of a gigantic cave system that has as many as 22,000 corridors. Over the years, all sorts of sculptures have been installed, each telling its own story. In addition, these sculptures together with all the texts and other 'souvenirs from the past' tell the story of this rich underground history, such as the marlstone quarrying that took place here for 700 years.

Art tells history

So how old are the Zonneberg Caves actually? Well, the oldest inscription dates back to 1551, showing right away that the stories from these caves go way back in time. That also makes this side of Maastricht so special. The local artists of Maastricht started applying their creations to the marl walls of the cave system around 1900. These artists used the corridors as so-called exhibition space, with the aim of getting more commissions. A particularly good choice as far as we are concerned, as there are few locations as fascinating as these caves. Not surprisingly, the owners of the caves had continuous battles over whose cave was the most beautiful. Consequently, visitors easily paid 2 guilders for a visit, which was a hefty sum for those days. By comparison, a hotel room cost you 1 guilder in those days!

The underground art gallery

What makes Caves Zonneberg most special is its museum. During the war, Rembrandt's famous painting The Night Watch was hidden in the caves. Based on this brave action, a charcoal drawing was even made in the caves of this famous work of art, full size! This work has recently been restored and you can admire it during your visit. You will also find works of art such as 'the drawing of Ahasverus', 'the drawing of the Dragon', 'Medallion' and 'The block breaker'.

Visit Zonneberg caves

As you explore the Sint-Pietersberg (Saint Peter's Mountain) underground, you will naturally also enter the fascinating world of Grotten Zonneberg. This is where your historical journey in Maastricht begins. You won't hear a sound here, have no coverage with your phone. Your fate is in the hands of Maastricht Underground's Official Maastricht Guide, who takes you into the underground world of Limburg's capital. Follow the guide's light, as there is no other source of light to be found in the cave. Be surprised in the underground cool (because a constant temperature of 11 degrees all year round) world of Maastricht.