Hoofdwacht

The history of Maastricht transport is highlighted here through key historical themes: the Maas, city gates, land routes, and locomotives. Prints, photos, books, and film on display demonstrate the great changes made in Maastricht throughout the centuries as it grew, and the monumental projects which enabled this region to connect with the wider world.

Hoofdwacht

Hendrik Jacob Ghier was tasked in 1736 with building the Hoofdwacht, or the Head Guard quarters. The building was completed two years later, buthad to be completely rebuilt again in 1774 due to problems with the building’s foundations. The building was once the nerve center of the city’s military garrison, which in its heyday numbered 11,000 soldiers. 

The Hoofdwacht, or Head Guard quarters, is the building where the city guards resided, and where the keys to the city gate and fortifications were kept. From here the guards were deployed to the city gates. There was also a small force with several cannons, which had to be the first to act, and to sound the alarm in case of danger. At the Vrijthof, troops were inspected and military punishments carried out. A wooden horse, an instrument of punishment for lighter offenses, stood next to Hoofdwacht.