Basilica of Our Lady Star of the Sea, Maastricht

Sturdy walls, small windows and dark surroundings. The Romanesque architecture of the basilica makes it a distinctive church in Maastricht. It is still largely original. You will experience the space much as people did in the twelfth century. There are several mural paintings that are centuries old, as well as painted wooden statues. The works of art each tell their own story, and legend has it that the saints who are portrayed came to the aid of people in need. There are saints who helped relieve a headache, a fever or toothache, while others protected you from fire, hailstones, floods and even sudden death.