Vrijthof is surrounded by 38 national monuments, including the Romanesque Basilica of St Servatius, the Gothic St John's Church, the stately Spanish Gouvernement, the neoclassical Main Guardhouse, and the elegant General House. This combination of religious and administrative buildings forms an architectural ensemble that makes the centuries palpable.
The Vrijthof is much more than just a square: it is the stage for Maastricht events. Every year, thousands of visitors come for André Rieu's famous summer concerts, the culinary Preuvenemint, fairytale Magical Maastricht, colourful Carnival and solemn religious ceremonies during the Heiligdomsvaart.
The east side of the square is a succession of atmospheric cafés, bustling terraces and cosy hotels. From historic brown cafés like In Den Oude Vogelstruys to modern hotspots, Vrijthof reflects Maastricht's Burgundian hospitality.
To the north and west, museums are located in monumental buildings, such as the Vrijthof Museum of Photography in the Spanish Gouvernement and the Theater aan het Vrijthof, which hosts classical performances as well as cabaret, theatre and concerts. These cultural institutions give Vrijthof an intellectual and artistic depth.
The Vrijthof is both an open square and social edifice; a space that turns into ice cream and Christmas country in winter, filled with music and markets in summer, and invites a monument of peace and wonder at other times. Archaeological excavations during the construction of the car park under the square revealed of Roman and Frankish tombs, a silent reminder of the ongoing continuity of this public place.
The Vrijthof is the living soul of Maastricht. A place where history, culture and Burgundian pleasures meet and where every visitor - whether for a concert, cup of coffee or winter cosiness - takes a piece of Maastricht with him into his heart.
Visiting the Vrijthof in Maastricht and want to be assured of a parking space? Then simply reserve your parking space online at Q-Park Mosae Forum. 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 no longer have to pass the pay machines. Would you prefer to park at Q-Park Vrijthof? You cannot reserve a parking space here.