Stand outside Helpoort (Hell’s Gate) and imagine arriving here as a traveler when the town was fortified in the Middle Ages. Talk to one of the guides to learn about the long and varied history of the building and climb to the top of the walls for great views across the town. Bring a picnic and stop for lunch in the nearby park.
Helpoort is the oldest surviving town gate in the country and the only remaining one in Maastricht. The impressive stone structure dates back to 1229, when Maastricht was awarded town status. The gate served as part of the town’s fortifications for around two centuries. Since then it has been used as an armory, a gunpowder storeroom and an artist’s studio. Thanks to extensive restoration work in the 20th century, you can now appreciate the gate much as it would have looked in medieval times.
Approach from any direction and you will notice the high gate flanked by two round towers. In between, an orange wooden watch house above the gate makes for some nice contrasting photographs. Legend has it that the gate got its name because of the heat given out from the blacksmith’s studios within. Now these rooms serve as a museum on the history of Maastricht. Have a look around and chat to the knowledgeable docents. The exhibition is free to enter and is open during the summer months.
Climb to the top of the tower for some great views across the city then do a loop walk around the old town walls. The walk will take you through a well-kept park. Sit by the creek and enjoy a picnic or a nap in the sun.
Helpoort is located on the west side of Maastricht. It is open daily and year-round, though the history exhibition is only open during the summer months. The gate makes a great starting point from which to explore the nearby St. Pietersberg or bustling Vrijthof square.
