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Religious hotspot

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

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
Kruisherenhotel Maastricht Maastricht aan Tafel Kruisherenhotel Champagne

Discover Maastricht - Places of interest in Maastricht.