Where does the name Mosae Forum come from?

Who does not know the Mosae Forum shopping area in the heart of Maastricht? A meeting place with great shops, cultural attractions, restaurants and unusual architecture. But what does 'Mosae Forum' actually mean? And have you ever wondered where this name comes from?

Mosae Forum

Mosae Forum is a largely covered shopping centre in the historic city centre. More about Mosae Forum

Mosae Forum

This name was not chosen at random. In fact, it reflects both the rich history of our city and the role this area plays today. In this blog, we’ll tell you more about the origins of Mosae Forum and visit some remarkable entrepreneurs who help make this area such a vibrant and welcoming place.

As the name 'Mosae' might give away, it refers to the river Meuse. The river that has flowed through Maastricht for centuries, connecting the city with other parts of Europe. In Roman times, this river was an important trade route and even today, the Meuse plays an important role in the cityscape. Because just looking at the Meuse from the various bridges is an experience in itself. The use of 'Mosae' in the name of this shopping area is therefore no coincidence. It emphasises the role the river plays between the past and the present. Wondering what forum, the second part of the name, means? Then read on.

Whether you want a day out or just want to enjoy a delicious lunch by the Meuse, Mosae Forum has it all:

Museum of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions is one of the places you'll find in Mosae Forum on the Meuse - located between the Market Square and Wilhelmina Bridge to be precise. What to expect here? Optical illusions that stimulate your senses and challenge you to see the world from a slightly different perspective. Enter a world where nothing is what it seems and be amazed. Whether you come for a fun day out with the family or decide to put your senses to the test with a friend; Museum of Illusions is a fun activity for all ages.

Grand Café Centre Ville

Also located directly on the Meuse, you'll find Grand Café Centre Ville. A place for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks. And where you can enjoy a snack and a drink with a view of the Meuse. The ideal place to unwind after a day of shopping or culture sniffing in Maastricht.

Museum of Illusions Maastricht

Enter a world where nothing is what it seems and be amazed by optical illusions. More info on Museum of Illusions Maastricht

Museum of Illusions Maastricht
Grand Café Centre Ville

Atmospheric, warm and accessible... Jazzy with bold 'extremes' is more appropriate! Conceptually well-crafted, from lunch to dinner. More info on Grand Café Centre Ville

Grand Café Centre Ville

The second part of the name, 'Forum', literally means meeting place in Latin. In Roman times, a forum was where traders gathered to sell their goods, meet people and exchange ideas. It was the beating heart of the city. Just like Mosae Forum in Maastricht today. From locals and tourists to people from the neighbourhood; everyone gathers there to shop or drink coffee overlooking the river Meuse. And that this shopping area is a meeting place is also reflected in the layout of the square with well-known surrounding shops such as H&M, s.Oliver and Open32. All located on the central square of Mosae Forum.

Also, if you want to discover the latest fashion trends, Mosae Forum is the place to be. We have listed some well-known fashion shops for you:

H&M

H&M is a globally renowned fashion chain where you can always find the latest trends. From casual clothes to outfits for a night out, H&M offers something for everyone. The shop is ideally located in the heart of Mosae Forum, making it one of the most frequented shops in the Maastricht market.

s.Oliver

Looking for stylish and comfy clothes for women, men and children? Known for its high-quality fashion, this shop is perfect for those looking for something special or timeless. You'll find s s.Oliver right on the Mosae Forum square.

Open32

This hotspot is the place for those who love casual and cool brands such as G-Star RAW, Levi's and PME Legend. The shop focuses on trendy, high-quality clothing for both men and women. Its location at Mosae Forum makes Open32 a convenient stop during your day of shopping in Maastricht.

H&M Mosae Forum

The collections cover everything from vibrant party collections to quintessential basics and functional sportswear. More about H&M Mosae Forum

H&M Mosae Forum
s.Oliver

s.Oliver is the brand for her, him and you. We stand for fashion that combines versatility and craftsmanship. Learn more about s.Oliver

s.Oliver
Open32

Multibrandstore with more than 60 shops in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany. The collection consists mainly of jeans and casual clothing. More about Open

Open

So the name of this shopping area breathes history and refers to Maastricht's Roman past. Because did you know that Maastricht is located on the Via Belgica, the old Roman trade route from Boulogne-sur-Mer to Cologne, which ran straight through southern Limburg, and thus also crossed Maastricht? Because it was an ideal place for a port, trade and inns, the Romans ended up staying in this area for some 400 years. And so a lot of Roman remains, hotspots and stories can still be found in this city, including the story of the name 'Mosae Forum'.