‘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.

This is not just another ordinary ice-skating experience. This ice arena, situated in Queenstown Gardens, is equipped with an LED light system, ice sleds, and hockey gears for the more competitive ones, offering activities for all ages.

If you're interested in art and history, this is the place for you to be. The National Museum of Traditions and Popular Arts brings old and new together under one roof. Contemporary works of art as well as ancient local crafts are exhibited in the Ottoman building. The house alone is a landmark in Algiers and should not be missed on a sightseeing itinerary.