Studying in the Political City of
Maastricht

One of the foremost attractions in the southernmost part of the Netherlands is Maastricht itself. It is a beautiful old town, a business provincial capital and a city that has preserved its hospitable international character through the centuries. Maastricht is a city with plenty to offer. It has been shaped through the ages by art and culture, and has a rich heritage and wealth of historic monuments. It is also a city of atmosphere and fun with a varied cycle of annual festivals and other events.

The lovely local countryside and proximity to neighbouring European countries are an invitation to go out and explore. All in all, it provides a relaxed environment for learning and living. One of its advantages is its central location in Europe: Brussels, Antwerp and Cologne within 90 minutes train ride, Bonn, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, Luxembourg and Dusseldorf are a mere 3 hours from Maastricht while Paris is only a four hour drive. In addition, there are convenient rail and airline connections to all major European cities.

Of course, Maastricht has placed itself on the political map recently being the location of a series of historic meetings of the leaders of the 12 European Community leaders (now called the European Union). This took place in the Consul Chamber at the Provincial Government an historic building in the city centre. Nearby, the MECC (Maastricht Exhibition and Conference Centre) also played an important part in proceedings. At that time, the vision of the leaders of those countries began to take shape and, over a decade, this culminated in the signing of the "Maastricht Treaty" in 1992. The Union has brought itself closer and closer since then so that Europe is now one of the most powerful trading blocs in the world.

Maastricht is a superb place to visit and to study with wonderful, warm people, excellent opportunities for enjoyment and historic buildings that are a wonder to enjoy.

Further information
Anke Wijnen - Department of Economics
Universiteit Maastricht
P.O.Box 616
6200 MD Maastricht
The Netherlands
Fax: +31 43 388 4864
E-mail: int.studies@facburfdewb.unimaas.nl
http://www.fdewb.unimaas.nl