Mestreechter Geis

This bronze statue holds great significance for many Maastricht residents. The concept Mestreechter Geis has been linked to the city and its inhabitants for generations. For many residents and visitors alike, the Mestreechter Geis has become one of Maastricht’s best-known symbols.

The Mestreechter Geis
The Mestreechter Geis is difficult to translate literally. The term represents the spirit, nature, disposition and character of Maastricht and its inhabitants. The Mestreechter Geis is often described as a combination of hospitality, humour and enjoying life together.

The term was first coined in 1955 by Loe Meuse in his operetta *Veer Mestreechteneere nao de maon*.

statueTo give the Mestreechter Geis a permanent place in the city, the bronze statue was unveiled on 20 May 1962. It was created by the Dutch sculptor Mari Andriessen and presented to Mayor Willem Baron Michiels van Kessenich to mark his 25th anniversary in office.

Since its unveiling, the statue has become a recognisable symbol of Maastricht. It serves as a reminder of the Mestreechter Geis and the significance of this concept for the city and its inhabitants.

What is there to see?
The bronze statue of the Mestreechter Geis stands on Op de Thermen square, right next to Het Bat and on the edge of the Stokstraat Quarter.

From the statue, you can easily walk into the Stokstraat Quarter, a historic district with listed buildings, narrow streets and characteristic façades. A small replica of the statue is available at the Maastricht Store.

Fun fact
During carnival, the square around the Mestreechter Geis is a well-known meeting place for Maastricht residents and visitors alike. As such, the statue continues to play a role in one of the city’s most important traditions to this day.

Want to find out more about what the Mestreechter Geis means to Maastricht? Click here for more information.