Maastricht - Church of Our Lady Onze Lieve Vrouwekerk

Must-see attractions nearby: Wilhelminabrug Limburg Museum of Art and Antiquities Vrijthof Stockstraat Museumkelder Derlon Spaans Gouvernement Op de Thermen

The fortress-like character of the Romanesque west work with its two stair turrets recalls the church's former function as an element in the town's fortifications; in its monumental simplicity it is unique in the Netherlands. The Late Gothic choir with its large crypt is a particularly notable feature of the interior. The capitals of the black columns in the ambulatory (12th C.) are richly carved. The side chapel containing the image of Onze Lieve Vrouwe Sterre der Zee (Our Lady Star of the Sea) dates from the 15th century, as does the rebuilding of the northwest doorway.

The vaulting of the nave, though in 15th century style, dates only from the 18th century. Other features of interest are the west crypt, which belonged to the earlier church, the church treasury, the beautiful 16th century cloister and the west tower.