Helpoort gate
The only city gate still present in Maastricht and also the oldest city gate in the Netherlands.
The Helpoort is part of the city's first city wall, built by special permission of the Duke of Brabant, Hendrik I in 1229. A special structure as it is still the only existing and oldest city gate in the Netherlands. For about two centuries, the gate served as a defensive structure to protect the city from outside influences. The walling up of the Nieuwstad, the area south of the gate (second half of the 15th century) gave the Helpoort gate a different function. For instance, the entrance was used as a meeting place for clothiers or fullers, harness house, powder magazine and even as a residence!
Want to experience what it was like? You can, because inside the city gate you will find the Fortress Museum. Get carried away by the remains, which make the memory of Maastricht's glorious medieval history tangible. A small, unique museum with great impact. The entrance is hidden on a little square next to the gate. Hosts and hostesses are on hand to explain and answer questions.
Prices
- €6.00 From 12 years of age. Children under 12 admitted free (accompanied by an adult).
- Explanatory price: A guided tour from the Helpoort to the Vief Köp including entrance to the Vestingmuseum costs 12 euro pp. For children under 12, 8 euros.
- Groups from: € 12,00
Opening hours
- Every Monday closed
- Every Tuesday closed
- Every Wednesday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Every Thursday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Every Friday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Every Saturday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
- Every Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
-
Helpoort gate found in Jeker Quarter
Location
In the Jeker Quarter, you will find atmospheric restaurants and cafés with the finest terraces, the historic city wall, a bakery with a water mill where flour is ground for the tastiest flans and, if you are lucky, live music in the streets.
Discover the surroundings
Tips in the area