Maastricht's Historical Buildings Walking Tour (Self Guided), Maastricht

Founded by the Romans some 2,000 years ago, the charming city of Maastricht is one of the oldest in the Netherlands. Its long history is manifested in numerous remnants, including religious and secular buildings of any form. Over the course of the centuries, Maastricht has garnered a wealth of architecture, featuring a variety of styles: Gothic, Baroque, Romanesque and Renaissance.

Cultural places as such, these historic structures contribute a great deal to the city's atmosphere. If you like ancient churches and cathedrals, centuries-old civil edifices and other notable locations, you will be quite impressed with Maastricht.

The best place to start exploring this aspect of the city is the magnificent downtown area, called "Vrijthof", one of the most picturesque in Maastricht. Here are some of its architectural marvels worth admiring:

The Saint Servatius Basilica – a true landmark, dominating Maastricht's skyline; the oldest church in Holland (established 1039);

Spaans Gouvernement (Spanish Government Building) – one of the oldest non-religious buildings in Maastricht;

Nieuwenhof Convent and Chapel – a former 15th-century nunnery, now home to the University of Maastricht;

Eerste Minderbroederskerk (First Franciscan Friars’ Church) – a fine example of Maastricht's 13th-century religious architecture;

Dinghuis (Ding House) – another historic monument; former Medieval courthouse – currently home to the Maastricht Tourist Office;

Stadhuis (City Hall) – a site not to miss when in Maastricht, one of the most recognizable pieces of Dutch classicism.

Maastricht has no shortage of lovely historic buildings scattered around the canals, hidden alleys and spacious squares. If you wish to take a proper look at the most fascinating of them, at your own pace and in your good time, take this self-guided walking tour.