St. Servaas, also known as St. Servatius, was an Armenian missionary who went on to be the first bishop of Maastricht. The city’s first stone churches were built after his arrival, and so a small church was built on the spot where he was buried in 384. Continually enlarged and rebuilt over the years, partly to accommodate the many pilgrims that flock to St. Servaas’ grave each year, that small church became the imposing Romanesque structure that stands there today.
The oldest part of the current building was constructed in the 11th century, while the Romanesque and Gothic influences remain strong in other parts of the church. The first thing you notice upon entering via the north gate is the impressive cloister, which dates back to the 15th century.
Continue on to the Treasury to see a variety of ancient religious relics. You will also find reliefs illustrating the life of St. Servaas, as well as a bust of the great man which is carried through the streets every year as part of Maastricht’s Easter parade. Make sure you stop by the crypt to see where the saint is buried, a site that continues to draw pilgrims to this day.
Make your way to the church’s interior, which has a pleasant atmosphere thanks to its high white ceiling and its large stained-glass windows. Look out for the fine Romanesque sculpture that decorates the inside of the church, and don’t miss the 34 capitals depicting religious scenes on the church’s west-facing entrance. Over by the south portal, the architecture takes a turn for the Gothic, most notably in its spectacular gold, blue and red arch with carved figures.
St. Servaas Church is located in Maastricht’s historic town centre. It is open every day, and entrance is free. After visiting the church, head out to the Vrijthof for a Dutch-style drink and a snack in one of the square’s many cafés. Depending on the time of day and your tastes, opt for a coffee with Dutch apple pie or a locally brewed beer with deep-fried croquettes known as “bitterballen”.
