Standing at the crossroads between the Netherlands, Germany, and Belgium, Maastricht is arguably the most beautiful of all Dutch cities. Founded by the Romans in 50 BC, it’s also one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands. Yet it’s Maastricht’s more recent history that gained the city its international fame. The Maastricht Treaty that formally established the European Union was signed there in 1992, turning Maastricht into the ultimate symbol of the newly founded European Union. But even if it weren’t for its historical significance, Maastricht would still be worth a visit for its grand squares, impressive churches, well-preserved city walls, and exquisite merchant houses.