The church originated around 1200 as a parish church for the Chapter of St Servatius and was first mentioned in 1218. In the 14th century and early 15th century, the present nave with side chapels and a striking baptistery from 1414 emerged. The original tower collapsed in 1366 and was rebuilt with brick and marl in the 15th century to its present form with an octagonal lantern.
The bright red colour of the tower is no aesthetic coincidence: it served as both the visible brand colour of the church council of Saint Servatius and to protect soft marl from the elements. The red paint is made from marl powder and iron ore - a centuries-old restoration tradition that was reinstated in 2006.
After the reconquest of Maastricht in 1632, the Sint Janskerk was converted into a Protestant church of the Nederduits Hervormde Gemeente in 1633, as a counterpart to the Catholic Servaasbasilica. Catholic wall paintings from the Middle Ages were uncovered and restored during restorations in the early 20th century.
Step inside, walk among the ancient columns and climb the tower for an unforgettable panorama. The Sint Janskerk offers an impressive perspective on the soul of Maastricht: stories, beauty and history in one visit.
Visiting the Saint Jans church and want to be assured of a parking space? Then simply reserve your parking space at Q-Park Mosae Forum. Would you rather park at Q-Park Vrijthof? You can! Please note that you cannot reserve a parking space at this car park. Would you rather park somewhere else in Maastricht? Take a look at our complete offer of parking facilities in Maastricht.
At Q-Park Mosae Forum, you can park from €28.50 per day. Reserve your parking space online in advance and be assured of a parking space. You can easily drive in and out based on your license plate and you don't have to pass the pay machine. At Q-Park Vrijthof, you can park from €35 per day.