The most beautiful places around Maastricht's city wall

The Aldenhofpark is the part of the Stadspark (city park) that lies between the city wall and Prince Bishop'singel. Ideally suited for a nice (city) stroll. Fortunately, you no longer notice that there was heavy fighting here in the 17th century, but you do see the statue of d'Artagnan, the musketeer who died in this area in 1673. The statue of d'Artagnan is surrounded by a pleasant bench, where you can take a break. This part of the city wall is called 'The Tongre Cat' and is named after the gun platform the 'cavalier'. Here you can admire, among other things, the Berenkuil and the sad bear on the bear bench. These tell the story of the bears (yes real bears...) that were kept in the Stadspark (city park) until 1982. Until people realised that this was no home for the bears. To see the statue of 'the wood nymph', you have to turn the corner at Tongerstraat and climb 'one floor up' the city wall. A surprising piece of green in the heart of Maastricht!

The Helpoort in Maastricht was built in 1229, after Hendrik I gave permission. This (only remaining) city gate is also the oldest city gate in the Netherlands! Whether you are interested in its rich history or not, this is a wonderful part of your city walk. You can find the HelpoHelpoort Onze-Lieve-Vrouweplein via Sint Bernardusstraat or via the canons on the Meuse side. The latter, by the way, is a wonderful place for a sunny picnic!

You will also find the Vestingmuseum here, which will tell you more about the history that this part of the city hides. What you immediately notice about this part of the city wall is the Jeker Tower that proudly overlooks Maastricht. This is a former rampart tower that you can climb into via Het Bat (Walloon word for dike, which explains a lot). Once you have both feet back on the ground, you can also walk straight to D'n Hiemel. Besides the historical story, you can also discover a very fine catering establishment here. We dare say they are blessed with one of the most beautiful terraces in town here. Via Faliezusterpark, you walk back into the Jeker Quarter . You can't believe your luck, because this place is always buzzing!

In the early 16th century, this rondeel was realised in Maastricht. Together with other parts, this formed a second city enclosure of Maastricht, protecting the city in bitter times. Today, you can admire and visit these national monuments in peace. They owe the name 'De Vijf Koppen' to a sinister story, in which five chief suspects were beheaded who allegedly betrayed the city. You can admire this special place from the Stadspark (city park) by the pond or climb via the Gate Wainely.