7 must-sees in Maastricht according to local Maan
The raw Sphinx Quarter is a special part of Maastricht. The former industrial area in the city centre is now a bustling neighbourhood with a film house, pop stage and restaurants. Emmanuel Merkus, who is usually called Maan, took us to his favourite places in the neighbourhood. Maan lives in the Sphinx Quarter and, according to him, this place has a less "chic and shoon" (chic and beautiful) image than the rest of the city. "It shows the other side of Maastricht, how it can also be. A place where history and innovation come together."
Meet - Maan
Maan is the owner of marketing agency Yongbloed, which, like the Sphinx Quarter, is unique. Just as Maan's company tells the stories of other companies, the Sphinx Quarter tells the story of the city. It is not surprising that Moon based his company in his hometown, as he has felt at home there all his life. "The opportunities here are endless. I was born and raised here and I want to help build my city."
Maan in 5 words: energetic, thinker, amicable, authentic, city pigeon.
The favourite spots - from Maan
The Gashouder - and the Frontenpark
After working hours, Maan likes to clear his head in the Frontenpark. "Cycling through the park I can switch off, get a breath of fresh air and discover things." Moon also enjoys coming here with his godson or friends. The Frontenpark is not a standard city park like you see them in other Dutch cities. It is enriched cultural heritage where nature was allowed to take its course for years. The Gashouder is one of the industrial monuments in the park. "You have two feet in history here, but also in the moment. You have nature there and still see industry. There are still walls where you can legally spray graffiti. It really is a place where old and new come together."
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Gashouder Maastricht
Gashouder Maastricht
This industrial monument in the Frontenpark now has a cultural destination. Find out more about Gashouder Maastricht
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Frontenpark
Frontenpark
An exciting and rugged piece of nature in the city. More info on Frontenpark
The Social Hub
Maan's company Yongbloed and his foundation Goed Volk are located in The Social Hub, formerly The Student Hotel. He chose this place because the vibe of the hotel suits both organisations. Not only students, but also locals like to come there. "It is a meeting place with a young energy and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors have a refreshing mindset and think in terms of possibilities. Together with the fine community feel, the hotel is a perfect calling card for my business." The Social Hub is the perfect place for those who want to work or relax in a lively and atmospheric location. You can stay overnight stay, (co-)work, party, eat and drink there.
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The Social Hub
The Social Hub
If you think every journey should be inspiring, then you've come to the right place at The Social Hub. Find out more about The Social Hub
Agricultural interest
Maan describes Landbouwbelang, a former grain warehouse and transhipment company that is now a cultural sanctuary, as "the underbelly of the city". This is where people from all walks of life come together. "You should not expect too much, but see what emerges. Here, people still make an effort for others, for example in the repair café. There is a culture all its own. A difference is made here on a social and societal level, where attention to people is central." The choice of activities at Landbouwbelang is hugely diverse at the moment, but the question is whether it will remain so in the future. Indeed, in the coming years, the cultural sanctuary will receive a rezoning. Among other things, flats and office spaces will be realised at the site. The current residents and alternatives are in talks with the municipality about a new location. Read more about the redevelopmenthere.
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Landbouwbelang | De nieuwe Hall of Fame
Landbouwbelang | De nieuwe Hall of Fame
Maastricht's cultural sanctuary and breeding ground for young talent. Open studios, workshops, a meeting space and more. More info on Landbouwbelang | De nieuwe Hall of Fame
A la Paco
At A la Paco, a Spanish sandwich shop, you really feel like you are visiting owner Paco. It is one of Maan's favourite lunch spots. "You pay a good price for a tasty sandwich here. You can eat it there or take it elsewhere. In this small, fine establishment, people really work from the heart." You can find the atmospheric restaurant on Bredestraat, adjacent to the Vrijthof, within walking distance of the Sphinx Quarter.
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A la Paco
A la Paco
Delicatessen where you taste the flavours of Spain, from fresh tapas and cheeses to authentic cold cuts and olives. More about A la Paco
Wine restaurant - Mes Amis
Maan describes himself as a "simple man" who learnt to appreciate the burgundian life at Wijnrestaurant Mes Amis. "Fine dining felt high-threshold at first, but thanks to Mes Amis, a world opened up for me. The place is cosy, comfortable and cosy. When I ate there, I understood what it means to be a burgundian." You'll enjoy delicious food and Limburg wines with a story. Here, the wines are not chosen to go with the dishes, but the other way around. Local wines inspire the chefs. Maan tips the adjacent wine shop Goesting, which specialises in Limburg wines. "You can't leave Limburg without a Limburg wine," says Maan.
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Wijnrestaurant Mes Amis
Wijnrestaurant Mes Amis
Specialising in regional wines. "Come in as a guest, leave as a friend". More info on Wijnrestaurant Mes Amis
Mural - Human rights
Maan saw the Ronald Topor-designed mural on Tongersestraat as the 'gateway to the city'. He used to pass here when cycling from his home to the Faculty of Law. French artist Topor, who died in 1997, originally created the painting for Amnesty International. The artwork was created to commemorate 40 years of human rights and as a call to stand up against human rights violations. "It is true to who I am and at the same time it is a powerful message. I think it's an impressive site," said Maan.
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"Human Rights" mural
"Human Rights" mural
On Tongersestraat you will find one of the city's oldest murals. More info on "Human Rights" mural
The statue - by Minckelers
For Maan, Minckelers' statue is a landmark in the city, giving him a familiar feeling. The statue, which overlooks the City Hall, is a memento of Jan Pieter Minckelers, who was born in Maastricht in 1748. He was a physicist and pharmacist with interests in meteorology, geology and palaeontology. He went down in history for his inventions in forming and using gas.
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Minckelers met de vlam
Minckelers met de vlam
Minckelers met de vlam ' statue Minckelers met de vlam on the Markt is an indispensable character in Maastricht history. More info on Minckelers met de vlam
Local tip - from Maan
As an art lover, Maastricht is the place to be. Whether you love ancient treasures or surprising modern art, you will find it in various museums and underground. But there is more! A large part of Maastricht art can be found while walking through the city. Hidden gems in public places made with spray cans, stickers and brushes, which tell the story of the city. Take a peek into the world of street art and discover Maastricht's story.
