Provincial Government of Limburg

On the banks of the Meuse lies the Provincial Government of Limburg, the Limburg Provincial Government Building. This striking building, partly built on an island in the river, gained international fame as the site where the Maastricht Treaty was signed in 1992. This treaty marked an important step in the further development of the European Union and the introduction of the euro.

Administrative heart of Limburg
Since its opening in 1986, the Provincial Government of Limburg has been the administrative seat of the province of Limburg. This is where the Provincial Council meets and important decisions for the province are taken.

The Government Building succeeded the Former Govermnent Building Building in Maastricht city centre as the provincial government headquarters. This meant that the provincial administration moved to a modern building with more space for administration, official functions and public receptions.

Architecture and art
The Provincial Government Building was designed by architect Gerard Snelder. Due to its location on, and partly within, the Meuse , the building appears to float above the water when viewed from various angles. The combination of brick, natural stone and large glass panels gives the building a contemporary look.

Inside, there is an extensive art collection featuring works mainly by Limburg artists. The monumental Statenzaal and the stately reception rooms are also among the building’s architectural highlights.

The Maastricht Treaty
The Provincial Government of Limburg gained international significance as a result of the European Summit in December 1991. During this meeting, European heads of government reached agreement on the Maastricht Treaty, which was signed at the Gouvernement on 7 February 1992.

The table on which the treaty was signed is still on display at the Provincial Government Building and serves as a reminder of an event that put Maastricht on the world map.

Visit the Provincial Government Building
The Gouvernement can only be visited as part of a guided tour. During a guided tour, you’ll discover the unique architecture, the art collection and the rooms where important political decisions were made. You can find more information about the various guided tours and how to book them on the Province of Limburg’s website.