Step through the grand, arched entrance of the Selexyz Dominicanen bookstore in Maastricht, and you are immediately enveloped in a world where history whispers from ancient stones, and literature stretches towards the heavens. This remarkable venue, often touted as one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, offers a rare combination of historical reverence and modern literary culture, all housed within the soaring confines of a centuries-old Dominican church.
The foundation of this architectural marvel dates back to the 13th century. Established in 1294, the Dominicanenkerk was originally constructed as a place of worship for the Dominican Order, a Catholic religious order founded by Saint Dominic. The church played a significant role in the spiritual and social life of Maastricht, enduring through the turbulent Middle Ages, the ravages of war, and the secularization waves of the 18th century. By the late 1700s, the church had ceased its religious functions, as Napoleon's forces repurposed the building for secular uses, including serving as a warehouse and even a bicycle storage facility.
The architecture of the Selexyz Dominicanen is a stunning example of Gothic design. Visitors are often awestruck by the high vaulted ceilings, the intricate frescoes—which have been carefully restored—and the expansive stained glass windows that cast a kaleidoscope of colors across the stone floors. The symphony of arches and columns, juxtaposed with sleek modern bookshelves, creates a visual and intellectual feast. This blending of old and new is nowhere more beautifully illustrated than at the altar, which now houses a cafe where visitors can enjoy a coffee while contemplating the grandeur surrounding them.
Maastricht itself is a city rich in cultural traditions and vibrant festivals. The city celebrates its unique position at the crossroads of Dutch, Belgian, and German cultures through events like the Carnival of Maastricht, a pre-Lenten festival marked by elaborate costumes, parades, and music, filling the streets with a joyous cacophony that echoes the city’s diverse heritage. The Selexyz Dominicanen, though secular in its current function, remains a significant cultural hub, hosting literary events, book signings, and local art exhibitions.
While you're in Maastricht, indulge in local culinary delights that reflect the region’s rich gastronomic traditions. Try zoervleis, a traditional Limburgian dish of marinated meat stew, typically served with fries, or vlaai, a sweet pie with various fruit fillings that is a staple of local patisseries. The city’s bustling market squares offer a chance to sample regional cheeses and craft beers, providing a true taste of Limburg’s culinary wealth.
Amid the rows of books, there are hidden stories and curiosities that many visitors might overlook. One such feature is the ancient fresco of Saint Thomas Aquinas, a Dominican friar and theologian, whose image was thought to be lost to time but was uncovered during restoration efforts. Another intriguing detail is the church’s original choir space, now a serene reading area where visitors can sit and reflect, surrounded by centuries of history.
For those planning a visit, the Selexyz Dominicanen is best experienced in the quieter months of late spring or early autumn when the city is less crowded, allowing you to fully appreciate the serene grandeur of the space. As you explore, take a moment to look up and appreciate the delicate interplay of light and shadow across the vaulted ceilings, a reminder of the church’s storied past. Be sure to visit the in-house cafe, located right beneath the original choir, for a unique vantage point and a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the bustle of the bookstore.
In the heart of Maastricht, the Selexyz Dominicanen stands as a testament to the transformative power of time, where the sacred and the secular meet to create a space that is as much about community and culture as it is about history and architecture. Whether you come for the books, the history, or simply the atmosphere, this extraordinary venue promises a memorable experience that lingers long after you leave its hallowed halls.
