Maastricht was heavily fortified during the Middle Ages, but just one gate remains from its great city walls. Now that gate plays host to a fine local history museum.
Helpoort (Hell’s Gate) offers visitors a truly unique insight into Maastricht’s medieval past. Here at the oldest surviving town gate in the Netherlands, take the chance to learn about Maastricht’s experience of the Middle Ages, to climb old city walls and look out over town, and to imagine yourself a traveller in a completely different time.
For some two centuries, the Helpoort served as part of the town’s fortifications. In the many years since then, it has taken on various other functions. After stints as an armory, as a gunpowder storeroom and as an artist’s studio, the gate has undergone some serious restoration work and now it appears more or less just how it did in the Middle Ages. Admire this storied monument from the outside and consider how many other travellers have stood before it over time.
In between the Helpoort’s two round towers, you will notice the wooden watch house located above the gate. The bright orange colour of this watch house makes for a picturesque contrast and a great opportunity for a memorable photograph.
According to legend, the rooms within the gate were once a blacksmith’s studio, which gave out a considerable amount of heat, hence the gate’s rather melodramatic name. Today the fortification is home to a museum dedicated to Maastricht’s history, which you can enter for free and which is staffed by knowledgeable docents.
Head up to the top of the tower and enjoy the great views across Maastricht. From there, a loop walk will take you around the old town walls, passing through a lovely park on the way. Linger here a while for a picnic by the creek or a quiet rest in the sun.
Helpoort is open every day throughout the year. The museum is only open during summer, however. From its position on the western side of Maastricht, Helpoort is a convenient starting point from which to explore St. Pietersberg or the bustling Vrijthof.
