Top 10 Intriguing Facts about Vrijthof, Maastricht

Vrijthof in Maastricht, The Netherlands photo by Demeester Wikimedia

Top 10 Intriguing Facts about Vrijthof, Maastricht

Vrijthof is a large urban square in the center of Maastricht Netherlands. The square developed from an ancient Roman and Frankish cemetery into a semi-private space .It belonged to collegiate church of Saint Servatius. The Vrijthof is one of the most important squares in Maastricht. 

In the 19 th century it became the town’s main square. Vrijthof has been surrounded by important heritage buildings, museums, a theatre and a range of hotels. The square has been regularly used  for public events.

Around Vrijthof square are numerous historic buildings that hark back to the time. When Maastricht was a religious center and a military fortress, such as the Basiliek van Sint Servaas (Basilica of St. Servatius), Sint Janskerk (St John’s Church), Spaans Gouvernement Museum, the Hoofdwacht (Main Guardhouse), and the Generaalshuis (General’s House).

You will also find countless fantastic terraces and beautiful hotels that are frequented by visitors and residents of Maastricht all year round. This romantic and historic square is the largest in Maastricht. 

Here are Top 10 Intriguing Facts about Vrijthof, Maastricht

1.Vrijthof has been the largest square in the center of Maastricht

It is the largest square in Maastricht  which is known as the location of Andre Rieu’s  summer concerts. This is a nice place to visit. There are a lot of restaurants with terraces on the square. Also there are beautiful historic buildings to see that surround the square.

2. There are colorful statues in Vrijthof Maastricht

Statue at Vrijthof square Maastricht photo by Henk Monster Wikimedia

There are colorful statues at the edge of the Vrijthof  depict five carnival Musicians. The statues commemorate the musician bands and orchestras. These spontaneously get together and walk the streets at carnival time.

The statues were designed by Han Van Wetering 1993. They were originally bronze statues and subsequently treated with a colorful polychromatic coating in 2005. These are fantastic feature of the square and very photogenic.

3. The red towered Saint Jan’s church in

Vrijthof Maastricht

This is an impressive gothic protestant church building. Sint-Janskerk was one of the first four parish churches of the city in the middle ages. It takes its name from John the Baptist.

This was originally built the church in the 14th and 15 the century and was restored it since. This tower was instantly recognizable by the 79 meter tall painted red tower.

4.  The Rainbow Pedestrian crossing in Vrijthof

Vrijthof Maastricht photo by Mark Ahsmann Wikimedia

At the edge of the Vrijthof square has a rainbow LGQBT rainbow pedestrian crossing which is pretty. It has been in place there since the gay pride march in 2015. It is a popular spot for photographers and selfie takers.

5.Fotomuseum at the Vrijthof

Presided over by stately churches in its cafe-edged square, this fine museum lures you in with its lipstick-red frontage – it is housed in the 16th-century Spanish government building where Charles V stayed during his visits to Maastricht. The exhibitions it lays on have enterprising themes, including pop culture and contemporary art. As with all good museums, there’s a cafe in the covered courtyard where you can sit back with a hot coffee and a slice of Limburg pie.

6. See the beautiful Hoofdwacht

The Hoofdwacht which is a former military building. This is where the soldiers’ Guard was located. The building which is currently used to host exhibitions/ weddings. This building is unique and very preserved.

7.Peruse Basilica of Saint Servatius

St. Servatius Basilica photo by W. Bulach Wikimedia

The Basilica of Saint Servatius which is an impressive Romanesque church and pilgrimage site in the Square. The church houses and impressive treasury and some nice cloisters. It is a great place to visit and good value to enter. This is one of the must see churches in Vrijthof Maastricht.

The building which is pretty on the eyes and has an art filled treasury housing of St. Servatius. Basilica of Saint Servatius which is on the edge of Vrijthof. The Vrijthof has the city’s main square which is also right next door to the Gothic church dedicate to saint John.

It was built between the 11th and 12th centuries, it is believed to lie above the grave of Saint Servatius, who died in Maastricht in 384 AD. While its interior is not quite as impressive, it is still well worth visiting. Vaulted ceilings and arches can be found alongside some brilliant choirs, chapels, and a treasury full of glittering artifacts. The basilica makes for some fantastic photos. With Saint John’s Church towering next to it, it is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city.

8. Attend an Andre Rieu Concert

The Vrijthof  has been the venue and backdrop for Andre Rieu’s classical music concerts in the city. One can get a ticket to a concert in the square. It is truly special. Andre Rieu has been fantastic showman and love to entertain.

Andre Rieu’s concert is a very special occasion which gives a unique perspective on the city. Get toe enjoy the Andre Rieu concert to the fullest and complete the evening with a terrace arrangement. You can have a delicious three- course meal at one of the restaurants on the Vrijthof square.

The event which became an established tradition in Maastricht. To see Rieu perform in his home town Maastricht which is more than swaying along to the music of La Traviata. It is the most captivating weekend -long festivity.

9. The Bandstand in Vrijthof Square

The Bandstand which is located towards the end of the square. It is used for musical performance in the city.  And also for the occasional big concert. This was nice to mooch around and while passing. But it is much fantastic to hear some classical music performed. 

10. Vrijthof Fountain

Fountain on the Vrijthof in Maastricht photo by Otter Wikimedia

The fountain on the square has been relatively new. It was created by Frans Gast in 1978. Hawt Uuch Vas which is the Dutch name that translates to Hold each other. It is related to Carnival and symbolizes community and spirit, fun and charity. The sculpture depicts five carnival figures, two men, two women and a child, in masks, dancing hand in hand around the fountain. The work was made by sculptor Frans Gast and was unveiled in 1978.