Maastricht by the riverside is, like the other areas of Maastricht, pretty. With the old style buildings, the arching bridges and the glistening waters of the river Maas, it is quite a view. The river at nighttime is simply breathtaking. With a sense of peace in the air the lights from the bridges illuminate the waters just so, and it is stunning.
The river is one of the defining features of Maastricht, from orienting yourself or asking for directions to the history, the city's position on the river is not easily forgotten. Even the city name signifies the importance of the river. The name Maastricht comes from Trajectum ad Mosam, meaning passage through the Maas river.
The bridges spanning the Maas also have stories to tell. While a Roman built bridge collapsed into the water in the year 1275, Maastricht still has the oldest bridge in the Netherlands. This bridge, St. Servaasbridge was built over 18 years from 1280-1298. It was named for the first bishop of Maastricht, St. Servaas. As I have stated before, everything you see in Maastricht is not only beautiful but it has a great deal of history behind it - the riverside is no exception!
