Basilica of Our Lady

In the centre of Onze-Lieve-Vrouweplein stands the Basilica of Our Lady, one of the oldest and most remarkable churches in the Netherlands. For centuries, this Romanesque basilica has been a place of tranquillity, reflection and gathering. Visitors come here not only for its rich history and remarkable architecture, but also for the atmospheric Chapel of the Star of the Sea, where hundreds of candles burn every day.

Centuries of history
The Basilica of Our Lady is one of the oldest churches in the Netherlands and is situated in the oldest part of Maastricht, within the former late-Roman castellum. Anyone stepping inside the church is literally walking through nearly two thousand years of history. A Christian church stood on this site from very early on. The present-day basilica, the oldest parts of which date from the 11th and 12th centuries, is regarded as one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in the Netherlands. Large Roman building blocks have been incorporated into the massive westwork, a tangible reminder of this special location’s past.

Sterre der Zee
Many visitors come specifically to see the Sterre der Zee chapel. The 15th-century statue of the Virgin Mary has been venerated for centuries and is an important place of pilgrimage. Every day, visitors light a candle here as a gesture of hope, gratitude or reflection. The hundreds of burning candles give the chapel a warm, almost serene atmosphere that makes a lasting impression.

Art and treasury
The basilica also houses a treasury containing exceptional religious art treasures. Among the items on display here are the famous Levite Robe of Saint Lambert, richly decorated reliquaries, church silver and centuries-old liturgical vestments. Together, they tell the story of Maastricht’s rich religious history.

Fun fact
Did you know that the annual pilgrimage to the Star of the Sea has been taking place for around five centuries? During this centuries-old pilgrimage, the faithful make their way to the basilica to honour Mary, the Star of the Sea. This tradition is still very much alive today.