‘This is where the cultural, creative, and enterprising urban district Sphinx will arise.’ So reads the ambition behind the plans for the development of the Sphinx area. Plans focus on the place where Maastricht’s industrial revolution began. It was here that Petrus Regout built his ‘Sphinx Factory,’ the start of what grew into an enormous industry, producing bathroom fixtures, tiles, and the products that made Maastricht great. The factory operated until 2006, and since then efforts have been under way to redevelop this area as a district that fits in with the city, but as something Maastricht does not already have. That’s why this district is being designed to attract creative types, young residents, national and international students, and expatriates. It will be internationally oriented, with room for flexible space and temporary functions. Where this area is going is becoming clearer and clearer, in things like the arrival of the pop music stage in a former sawmill, and the newly opened Brandweer(kantine), with workspaces and meeting places for creative entrepreneurs. But not everything in this part of the city is new and different. The historic and picturesque river harbour ‘t Bassin, adjacent to the Sphinx area, makes a perfect buffer for the transition from the more familiar and better known Maastricht to this new part of town.

Opened in 2008, the Museum of Eastern Art displays the biggest collection of Asian art and crafts in Italy. It is located in the Quadrilatero neighbourhood, in the ancient Mazzoni Palace. The exhibitions here are varied and change often, taking advantage of the 2200 artefacts that represent cultural and artistic traditions of the Asian continent.

The game is on at Alea Nottingham, a Vegas-style casino with games spread over two floors. If you get tired of playing games you can also enjoy a drink at the bar or a nice meal at the Marco Pierre White restaurant. Check for live entertainment on their website.