Sphinxpassage

The Sphinx Passage is a 120-metre-long covered tiled passageway between the Eiffel Building and Pathé. In this permanent exhibition, nearly 30,000 tiles, historical photographs, illustrations, advertisements and original artefacts tell the story of the Sphinx factories and their significance for Maastricht’s ceramics industry.

A walk through the industrial past
The exhibition is structured into 26 chronological chapters which together tell the story of the Sphinx factories and the people who worked there. From the company’s foundation and the growth of Maastricht’s ceramics industry to the closure of the factory in the city centre: each chapter illustrates how the factory helped shape the city and its inhabitants.

As well as the tile murals, you’ll also see original pieces from the Sphinx collection at Centre Céramique. The stories are available in both Dutch and English, making the exhibition accessible to international visitors too.

A lasting reminder of the Sphinx Quarter
The passage is situated in the Sphinx Quarter and serves as a tangible reminder of this district’s industrial past. A vibrant neighbourhood has sprung up around the former factory site, offering space for culture, hospitality and creativity. At 120 metres long, the Sphinx Passage is the longest covered tiled passageway in the Netherlands.

The Sphinx Passage is open daily free of charge and offers a unique way to learn about the history of Maastricht’s industry.