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Book Store Dominicanen: A Literary Sanctuary in a Gothic Church

Discover literary treasures within the breathtaking architecture of a 13th-century Dominican church in Maastricht.

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Housed in a stunning 13th-century Dominican church, Book Store Dominicanen in Maastricht offers a unique blend of history and literature. Vaulted ceilings, original frescoes, and a towering multi-story bookshelf create an awe-inspiring atmosphere for book lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to Book Store Dominicanen

  • Monday 10 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-9 pm
  • Friday 9 am-9 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-9 pm
  • Sunday 12 pm-6 pm

Local tips

  • Take your time to explore the different levels of the bookstore and admire the original frescoes and stained glass windows.
  • Visit the Coffeelovers café in the former priest choir for a unique coffee break surrounded by books.
  • Check the bookstore's event calendar for book signings, lectures, and musical performances.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Book Store Dominicanen is located in the city center of Maastricht and is easily accessible by foot from most central locations. From the Vrijthof square, walk south along Bredestraat, then turn left onto Dominicanerkerkstraat. The bookstore will be on your left. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    The nearest bus stop to Book Store Dominicanen is Boschstraat/Markt. From Maastricht Central Station, take bus number 3, 4, or 350 to Boschstraat/Markt. From there, walk east along Boschstraat, turn right onto Maastrichter Brugstraat, and then turn left onto Dominicanerkerkstraat. The bookstore will be on your right. A single bus fare costs approximately €2-3 [https://www.arriva.nl/en/maastricht-heerlen/travel-information/prices-and-tickets/single-and-return-tickets.htm]. The walk from the bus stop is approximately 5 minutes.

  • Parking

    If arriving by car, parking is available in the surrounding area, but can be limited. On-street parking is available in the red zone, costing €3.60 per hour. Alternatively, you can park at Q-Park SG Entre Deux, which is a short walk from the bookstore. Pre-booking online is recommended and costs around €35 per day.

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Discover more about Book Store Dominicanen

Book Store Dominicanen, also known as Boekhandel Dominicanen, is a world-renowned bookstore located in the heart of Maastricht, Netherlands. What makes this bookstore truly special is its location: a former 13th-century Dominican church. The Gothic church, the first of its kind in the Low Countries, boasts a rich history, having served as a monastery for centuries until 1794 when the French army captured Maastricht. Subsequently, it was used as a stable, warehouse, concert hall, and even a bicycle shed before falling into disrepair. In 2006, the church was reborn as a bookstore, thanks to a collaborative effort between the Selexyz bookstore chain and architects Merkx + Girod. They transformed the space into a literary haven while preserving its architectural grandeur. The interior features soaring vaulted ceilings, stained glass windows, and a monumental walk-in bookshelf that rises several stories high. This "steel book skyscraper," as it's been called, allows visitors to explore the Gothic details up close and offers unique perspectives of the space. Today, Book Store Dominicanen offers a vast collection of books in various languages, including Dutch, English, and French. You'll also find sections dedicated to vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, and gifts. The former priest choir now houses the Coffeelovers café, where you can enjoy a beverage while surrounded by literary treasures. The bookstore also hosts weekly events such as book signings, lectures, and musical performances. Visiting Book Store Dominicanen is more than just a shopping trip; it's an immersive experience that combines history, architecture, and a love for literature.

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