On the edge of the Jeker Quarter stands ‘Statue Of Ezeltje (Donkey)’, a bronze sculpture by the sculptor Gertrud Januszewski. The monument was erected in 1976 as a tribute to the many donkeys that used to be a familiar sight on the streets of Maastricht.

Donkeys in the cityscape
Before motorised transport became the main form of urban transport, donkeys were widely used to carry goods through the city. The statue serves as a reminder of a time when these working animals played an important role in everyday life in Maastricht.

The origins of the statue
The initiative for the monument came from Councillor Frits Gijbels. Following the redevelopment of the area, the idea arose to erect a statue commemorating the historical significance of donkeys to the city. Gertrud Januszewski was commissioned to design the statue, and ‘Statue Of Ezeltje (Donkey)’ was unveiled in 1976.

What is there to see?
The bronze donkey is depicted life-size and stands on a low natural stone plinth. The statue does not represent any specific animal, but symbolises the many donkeys that were once used in Maastricht to transport goods.

Statue of Ezeltje (Donkey) can be found in Jeker Quarter

Location

In the Jeker Quarter, you’ll find atmospheric restaurants and cafés with the best outdoor terraces, the historic city wall, a bakery with a watermill where flour is ground for the tastiest vlaai, and, if you’re lucky, live music on the street.

Discover Jeker Quarter