On the banks of the Moselle River lies Trier, Germany's oldest city. It was founded as a Roman colony in 16 B.C. by Emperor Augustus.
Trier - The Second Rome
Trier became the favored residence of several Roman emperors and was even called "Roma Secunda", the second Rome.
Nowhere else in Germany is the evidence of Roman times as vivid as it is in Trier.
Trier – What to Do
Porta Nigra: The highlight of Trier is the Porta Nigra (“black gate”), which is today the largest Roman city gate north of the Alps. The Porta Nigra dates back to 180 A.D. and is inlcuded in the UNESCO world heritage list.Cathedral of Trier: The Cathedral of Trier was originally built by Constantine the Great, the first Christian Roman Emperor; it is the oldest church in Germany. The Cathedral of Trier houses great works of art and a holy relic that draws many pilgrims: the Holy Robe, the garment said to be worn by Jesus when he was crucified.
Imperial Baths: Visit the ruins of one of the grandest Roman baths of its time; the Kaisertherme was built 1600 years ago, complete with an underground water heating system.
Main Market of Trier: The Main Market (Hauptmarkt) was the heart of medieval Trier; it is home to many picturesque half-timbered houses, the city church, the cathedral, a medieval fountain, and the Jewish quarter of Trier.
Karl Marx House: Visit the birthplace of Karl Marx, who was born in Trier in 1818; the house is now a museum, displaying rare editions of Marx’s writings.
Trier Travel Tips
- Getting There: Trier is located in west central Germany, just six miles from the Luxembourg border and 120 miles southwest of Frankfurt. Find out how to reach Trier by car or train
- City Tours (in English): Check prices and dates for Trier walking and bus tours here
- Where to Stay: Hotels in Trier
- In the Region: Visit the medieval Eltz Castle,just 45 miles northwest of Trier.
Trier is also on our list Germany's Top 10 Cities - Best Spots for City Breaks in Germany.
