Tired Legs = Great Days

Prior to leaving, I was told about Europe’s old buildings. However, Maastricht has exceeded the expectations. Maastricht is the oldest city in the Netherlands and there is proof all over the city. Over the last 3 1/2 days I think I’ve walked over 15 miles, seen buildings dating back to the 12^th century, and been inside more than 5 churches. My legs have been sore but it’s been a great way to figure out the landscape.

Here are some of the sites we’ve seen. No, this isn’t even close to everything.

The City Hall of Maastricht was finished in 1684. Every Wednesday and Friday there is a city market in the square in front of the building.

Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk (Church of Our Lady) is a Roman Catholic Basilica erected in the 12^th century. Olivia and I attended English mass on Saturday in the Crypt of the Basilica.

Helpoort and the original walls of the city were built around 1229. This area was full of history and yet there was a modern touch, a dance club in an old building next door.

Dominikanerkerk (Dominicans Church) was built between 1267 and 1280 and is considered one of the oldest Gothic structures in the Netherlands. This church was hidden in the shopping district and was fun to spend some time inside.

Sint-Janskerk church dates back to the 14^th century and can be seen from many places. It’s been a direction finder over the last few days.

Sint-Lambertuskerk (St. Lambert Church) is actually new compared to most of the churches. It was finished in 1916 but is a site that we get to see on the way to school. Sadly it's closed but I'd like to get inside.

Behind me is Sint Servaasbrug, an arched stone footbridge across the Meuse River. It is considered the oldest bridge in the Netherlands and was completed in 1298.

Bisschopsmolen mill dates back to 1442. Inside was a bakeshop and you could see the workings of the flour mill inside.

As you can see, Maastricht has a lot of beautiful sites and we’ve been busy. Classes start tomorrow but we'll continue to make time to see the sites.