Maastricht Treaty Building | Visit the Exhibition!
Did you know, that signing of the foundation of European Union was actually in Maastricht? – The Maastricht Treaty, officially known as the Treaty on European Union (TEU). It is an important international agreement signed in Maastricht, Netherlands, on February 7, 1992. Maastricht Maastricht Treaty Building and Exhibition is located at the Maas river in the “Government Building of Limburg” and open to the public. Our editor Mickey Smith from MAASTRICHT MAGAZINE ONLINE explains all about The Maastricht Treaty and goes to the exhibition!
What is Maastricht Treaty?
The treaty played a pivotal role in the evolution of the European Union (EU) and had several key objectives:
Creation of the European Union. The Maastricht Treaty established the European Union as a new and overarching framework for European integration. It built upon the existing European Communities and expanded the scope of cooperation among member states.
Economic and Monetary Union (EMU): The treaty laid the groundwork for the creation of a single currency, the Euro. It set out specific criteria and a roadmap for the adoption of the Euro by member states. The Euro became a reality in 1999 for electronic transactions and in 2002 for cash payments.
Common Foreign and Security Policy (CFSP). The Maastricht Treaty introduced the CFSP, which aimed to coordinate the foreign policy and security efforts of EU member states. It established mechanisms for closer cooperation in areas of foreign policy, defense, and crisis management.
We Europeans!
Citizenship of the European Union. The treaty introduced the concept of EU citizenship, granting citizens of EU member states additional rights and protections. Such as the right to move and reside freely within the EU.
Strengthened Institutions. The Maastricht Treaty reinforced the roles and powers of key EU institutions, including the European Parliament, the European Commission, and the Council of the European Union. It also introduced the concept of a “three-pillar structure” to distinguish between different areas of EU cooperation.
Cooperation in Justice and Home Affairs. The treaty established cooperation in areas related to justice and home affairs, such as law enforcement, immigration, and judicial cooperation.
The Maastricht Treaty marked a significant step in the process of European integration, leading to the formation of a more closely integrated European Union. It has since been amended and supplemented by subsequent treaties, such as the Treaty of Amsterdam, the Treaty of Nice, and the Treaty of Lisbon, which have further expanded and deepened the EU’s cooperation and institutions.
Where can I see the Maastricht Treaty?
Maastricht Treaty Building and Exhibition is located in the “Treaty House” or “Treaty of Maastricht Building.” This historic event took place at the government building known as the Gouvernement aan de Maas in Maastricht.
The building itself has historical significance as it was where the negotiations and discussions leading to the Maastricht Treaty took place in 1991. After the treaty was signed, the building was often referred to as the “Treaty House” in recognition of its role in the establishment of the European Union.
“Gouvernement” the Maastricht Treaty Building with permanent Exhibition
The “Gouvernement” in Maastricht, often referred to as the “Provinciehuis Limburg” or the “Government Building of Limburg” . It is a significant government building located in the city. It serves as the seat of the provincial government of Limburg, which is one of the twelve provinces in the Netherlands.
The Gouvernement is an impressive neoclassical building that was constructed between 1983 and 1986 to house the provincial government of Limburg. It is situated on the banks of the River Maas (Meuse) in the south part of Maastricht and is known for its architectural beauty and historical significance.
Inside the Gouvernement, you can find various government offices and meeting rooms. On the location the Provincial States of Limburg convene to discuss and make decisions on matters related to the province.
The building is also a spot for cultural events, exhibitions, and public tours. Visitors can to learn more about the history and governance of the province of Limburg. It stands as both a symbol of local government and a prominent architectural landmark in Maastricht.
Also the Permanent Exhibition of Maastricht Treaty is in the “Provinciehuis Limburg” or the “Government Building of Limburg”.
Where is Maastricht Treaty building located ?
Maastricht Treaty Building and Exhibition is located at the Maas river in Limburglaan 10 6229 GA Randwyck-Maastricht.
The permanent exhibition is open from Monday to Friday from 9.00am to 05.00pm and entrance is for free, like in some museums in Maastricht as well! And do not miss to visit the Museums Shops in Maastricht for quality souvenirs!
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