Where, Oh Where Wednesday - The International Triangle

We live in Belgium, just across the border from Maastricht, the Netherlands. This area is very international. The cities of Maastricht (Dutch), Liege (Belgian) and Aachen (German) are all within about 30 minutes drive of each other where this little boot heel of the Netherlands extends between Belgium and Germany. 

Maastricht is where the agreement was signed to make the Euro. This city was chosen because of the very international character of the region (it is called a Euregion). There are four or five different cultures combining in a very small area. Next to the Dutch area of Maastricht is the Flemish-speaking area of Belgium where we live. The Belgian city of Liege is in the French-speaking area of Belgium. Just south of Liege is the German-speaking area of Belgium, which borders Germany and the city of Aachen.

Aachen, or as some know it Aix-la-Chapelle, was the capitol of the Franks under Charlemagne. From 936-1531 it was where the kings of the Germans of the Holy Roman Empire were crowned. Tourists today visit the baths (from Roman times) and the cathedral where a holy relic exists of Charlemagne.

Liege, in French-speaking Belgium, was ruled by prince-bishops. Maastricht was jointly ruled by the prince-bishops of Liege and the dukes of Brabant. The city hall in Maastricht even has two stairways - one for each leader - and is built symmetrically so as not to bother either leader unduly. 

When we first arrived and went to market in Maastricht, we could pay with German marks, Belgian francs or Dutch guilders. Since 2000 the whole region uses the euro of course. The region is full of culture, history and natural beauty. Today it is in many ways joined, not only in history, but also in policy.