Introduction
Mainz, the capital of Rhineland-Palatinate, is immediately recognisable by the pink-reddish sandstones of its buildings. Located on the banks of the Rhine River, it boasts a rich heritage dating back to Roman times. As the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, inventor of the printing press, Mainz is home to the Gutenberg Museum, which showcases his revolutionary work. The city's skyline is dominated by the Romanesque St. Martin's Cathedral, a testament to its importance as a former prince-bishopric. Mainz is also renowned as Germany's wine capital, with the surrounding Rheinhessen region being the country's largest wine-growing area. Visitors can explore the charming old town with its half-timbered houses, enjoy the Mediterranean flair of the Rhine promenade, and experience the city's famous carnival celebrations, second only to those in Cologne.
Interesting Facts about Mainz
- Mainz is the capital of the German state of Rhineland-Palatinate and home to approximately 223,000 residents.
- Founded by the Romans in the 1st century BCE as Castrum Mogontiacum, it served as a frontier stronghold on the empire’s northern border.
- The city is the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, inventor of the movable-type printing press, with two original Gutenberg Bibles displayed at its Gutenberg Museum.
- Mainz was part of the medieval ShUM-cities alliance with Speyer and Worms, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site for their unique Jewish heritage.
- Its vibrant Rhineland carnival celebrations are considered the second-largest in Germany after Cologne’s.
- Over 30 World War II air raids destroyed half of Mainz’s historic centre, though much was reconstructed post-war.
- Mainz Cathedral, a Romanesque landmark begun in 975 CE, has dominated the city’s skyline for over a millennium.
- In 1793, it briefly became the short-lived Republic of Mainz – one of Europe’s earliest democratic experiments.
- The headquarters of ZDF, Germany’s second-largest public TV broadcaster, are located in the Lerchenberg district.
- Mainz lies at the heart of Germany’s largest wine-growing region, celebrated annually during its traditional Weinmarkt festival.
History
Mainz, a city steeped in over 2,000 years of history, was founded by the Romans as Mogontiacum, serving as the capital of the Roman imperial province of Germania Superior. The strategic location on the Rhine made it an important settlement, and remnants of this Roman heritage can still be seen today in the preserved aqueduct and theatre. Roman artefacts discovered during excavations are displayed in the Romano-Germanic Central Museum, including six partially preserved 4th-century Roman boats, two of which have been reconstructed to their original state and can be viewed at the Museum of Ancient Seafaring.
For more than a millennium, Mainz's skyline has been dominated by St. Martin's Cathedral, for which the foundation stone was laid around 975 CE. The city became a powerful ecclesiastical centre as the seat of an Archbishopric and Electorate, with the Archbishops of Mainz serving as archchancellors and the most powerful prince-electors in the Holy Roman Empire. The cathedral itself played a significant role in imperial history as a coronation site for German kings, with six monarchs crowned within its walls. Mainz is perhaps most famous for being the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of the printing press, whose legacy is celebrated in the Gutenberg Museum where two original Gutenberg Bibles from the mid-15th century are displayed.
Throughout its history, Mainz has experienced numerous periods of destruction and rebuilding. The city suffered its worst devastation during the Second World War between 1942 and 1945 when it was reduced to ruins. After the war, many of the period buildings were carefully restored, including the beautiful Kirschgarten square with its traditional red-and-white timber-framed houses. Today, walking through Mainz means traversing through Golden Ages and times of upheaval, with the old centre reflecting this fascinating history through its medieval cathedral, Electoral Palace, patrician town houses, narrow lanes, cobblestone streets, and beautiful squares. The distinctive pink-reddish sandstone buildings give the city its recognisable character, while modern landmarks such as the City Hall designed by Danish architect Arne Jacobsen in 1971 blend with the historical architecture.
Main Attractions
St. Martin's Cathedral (Mainzer Dom)
This impressive 1000-year-old Roman Catholic cathedral stands as Mainz's most famous landmark. Built in the style of St Peter's in Rome, the massive red sandstone structure measures 110 metres long and 28 metres tall, with its tallest tower reaching 80 metres into the sky. The cathedral's distinctive red sandstone façade is visible from many points throughout the city, creating an iconic silhouette against the skyline.
The cathedral was commissioned by Archbishop Willigis around 1000 CE and has witnessed significant historical events, including the coronation of seven kings and the wedding of Emperor Henry V to Matilda, daughter of English King Henry I. Despite suffering damage during World War II, the cathedral has been meticulously restored to preserve its architectural significance.
Inside, visitors will find a treasure trove of religious art and historical artefacts spanning nearly a millennium. The interior features a mix of Romanesque, Gothic, Baroque, and Rococo elements, reflecting the cathedral's long construction history and various renovations over the centuries.
Notable features include the bronze door in the Romanesque sandstone portico, built in 1200, making it the oldest part of the basilica. The "Schöne Mainzerin" (beautiful lady of Mainz) depiction of Mary in the Ketteler Chapel is particularly revered by locals and visitors alike. The cathedral houses an extensive collection of tombs from the 13th to 19th centuries, including those of archbishops and electoral princes who once ruled the region.
The cloister, which served primarily as a burial place with approximately 250 people interred there, offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling city. The cathedral museum, located in the Gothic cloister, displays liturgical vestments, religious artefacts, and treasures from the cathedral's long history, including illuminated manuscripts and medieval sculptures.
Old Town (Altstadt)
The Mainz Old Town, though small, is one of the most charming areas of the city with its cobblestoned streets and restored half-timbered buildings. Walking through this district feels like stepping back in time, with many buildings dating from the 17th and 18th centuries. The area suffered significant damage during World War II but has been lovingly reconstructed to preserve its historical character.
Kirschgarten is a picturesque square dating back to 1329, featuring colourful half-timbered homes from the 17th century. The name means "cherry garden," though only a small remnant of the original orchard remains. This intimate square is often considered one of the most photogenic spots in Mainz, with its well-preserved medieval architecture creating a postcard-perfect scene.
Augustinerstrasse, one of the most famous streets in the Old Town, is lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants housed in historic buildings. The street takes its name from the Augustinian monastery that once stood here and leads to St. Augustine's Church. Throughout the Old Town, visitors will find numerous small squares, hidden courtyards, and narrow alleyways that invite exploration.
The Old Town is also home to many traditional wine taverns (Weinstuben) where visitors can sample local Rheinhessen wines, particularly the region's famous Rieslings. These establishments often feature rustic interiors with wooden beams and offer hearty regional cuisine alongside their wine selections.
Central Market Square (Marktplatz)
This picturesque square sits in front of the Mainz cathedral and serves as a central meeting point for locals and visitors alike. The square has been the heart of civic life in Mainz for centuries, hosting markets, festivals, and public gatherings. Its central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the city.
The enormous sandstone Heunensäule column has stood in the centre since 1975, though it's believed to be more than 1,000 years old. This ancient column was discovered during excavations and is thought to have been part of a Roman aqueduct or monument. Its placement in the market square connects modern Mainz with its Roman past.
The weekly market held three times per week (Tuesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7am to 2pm) continues a tradition that has existed for centuries. Here, local farmers and merchants sell fresh produce, flowers, cheeses, meats, and regional specialities. The market is not just a shopping venue but a social institution where locals gather to chat and catch up on community news.
Surrounding the square are several historic buildings, including the Renaissance-style Market Fountain (Marktbrunnen) from 1526. This elaborately decorated fountain features figures representing the seven electors of the Holy Roman Empire and serves as a popular meeting point. The Haus zum Römischen Kaiser (House of the Roman Emperor), with its ornate façade, is another architectural highlight facing the square.
Schillerplatz
This grand tree-lined square has served as a public plaza since Roman times and was used as a marketplace in the Middle Ages. Today, it functions as one of Mainz's most elegant urban spaces, surrounded by impressive buildings and filled with mature chestnut trees that provide welcome shade during summer months.
A bronze statue of poet Friedrich Schiller, erected on his 100th birthday in 1859, stands at the centre of the square. Schiller, though not from Mainz himself, represents the German literary tradition and ideals of freedom that resonated with 19th-century citizens of the city. The statue depicts the poet in a contemplative pose, holding a book and quill.
The impressive nine-metre-high Fastnachtsbrunnen (Carnival Fountain) is the square's most distinctive feature. Completed in 1967 by artist Blasius Spreng, this elaborate bronze fountain is decorated with more than 200 bronze figures depicting scenes from Mainz history, local folklore, and carnival traditions. The fountain celebrates Mainz's reputation as a carnival stronghold and requires careful observation to appreciate all its intricate details and humorous elements.
Schillerplatz is surrounded by several significant buildings, including the State Theatre of Mainz (Staatstheater Mainz) and the former electoral palace (Kurfürstliches Schloss), now part of the University of Mainz. The square regularly hosts events, including parts of the annual carnival celebrations and summer festivals.
Rhine Promenade (Adenauer-Ufer)
This popular riverside walkway runs from the customs port to the old city centre, offering beautiful views of the Rhine River. The promenade was redesigned in recent decades to create an attractive public space that reconnects the city with its riverfront. The wide pedestrian path allows for leisurely strolls while watching the constant river traffic of cargo ships, cruise vessels, and pleasure boats.
The promenade features benches and lawns where visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery. On clear days, the views extend to the hills of the Taunus region across the river. The area is particularly beautiful at sunset when the light reflects off the water and illuminates the historic buildings along the riverbank.
Families with children will appreciate the playgrounds scattered along the promenade, while active visitors can use the facilities for skateboarders and basketball players. The restored Raimunditor and Schlosstor gates facing the river are remnants of the city's former fortifications and provide a glimpse into Mainz's defensive past.
The Rheinstrand, a city beach area perfect for drinks or meals, becomes particularly lively during summer evenings. This urban beach features imported sand, deck chairs, and casual dining options, creating a holiday atmosphere in the heart of the city. Dedicated barbecue areas allow for outdoor cooking and picnicking, making the promenade a popular spot for social gatherings.
Throughout the year, the promenade hosts various events, including parts of the Mainz Wine Market, outdoor concerts, and the spectacular Johannisnacht festival with its fireworks display over the Rhine. River cruises depart regularly from the nearby docks, offering another perspective on the city and its surroundings.
St. Augustine's Church (Augustinerkirche)
Located in the heart of the Old Town, this church was built from 1768 to 1772 and remarkably survived World War II almost unscathed. The church belongs to the Augustinian order, which has had a presence in Mainz since the 13th century. The current building replaced an earlier medieval church and represents one of the finest examples of Rococo architecture in the region.
The exterior features a red sandstone portal with a modern glass entrance that creates an interesting contrast between historical and contemporary elements. The church's relatively simple façade gives little indication of the spectacular interior that awaits visitors.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by magnificent Rococo decorations in original condition. The church interior is a harmonious composition of white and gold, with elaborate stucco work covering the walls and ceiling. The bright, airy space is illuminated by large windows that flood the nave with natural light.
Large ceiling paintings by Johann Baptist Enderle depicting scenes from St Augustine's life are among its most impressive features. These vibrant frescoes narrate key moments from Augustine’s life with remarkable detail. A divided organ built by Johann Heinrich Stumm in 1773 sits above the entrance; it is still used for concerts today.
Art historians value a rare 1420 lime wood sculpture of Mary with infant Jesus located inside—an exceptional Gothic masterpiece preserved through centuries.
Historical Towers
Mainz retains three medieval towers from its former city walls: Holzturm (Wood Tower), Eisenturm (Iron Tower), and Alexanderturm (Alexander Tower). These towers once formed part of an extensive fortification system encircling medieval Mainz to protect it from invaders.
The Holzturm is a Gothic tower built in 1419 that served as a watchtower near Rhine docks; it later became a prison. Its name derives from wood stored nearby along Rhine banks during medieval times.
The Eisenturm dates back earlier than Holzturm—it was built around 1240 near an iron market hence its name—featuring Romanesque architecture elements while also functioning historically as both gatekeeper tower/prison facility later repurposed culturally today too!
Top Museums
Landesmuseum Mainz (Mainz State Museum)
The Landesmuseum Mainz, situated in the heart of the city, occupies the historic Golden-Ross-Kaserne building complex, enhanced by a modern glass and steel wing. As one of Germany's oldest museums, it boasts an extensive collection of art and cultural artefacts spanning from prehistoric times to the present. The museum's holdings vividly illustrate the multifaceted aspects of cultural and social history across millennia.
Exhibits within the Landesmuseum include prehistoric artefacts, Roman relics, and medieval sculptures. Visitors can also explore Renaissance paintings, Baroque furniture, Dutch paintings, 18th-century porcelain, 19th-century paintings, and modern art works by celebrated artists such as Liebermann, Slevogt, Corinth, Beckmann, and Picasso. The museum also features a graphics collection with works by Edgar Degas, Paul Signac, Alfred Sisley, William Turner, Adolph von Menzel, and Paul Klee. Additionally, the Landesmuseum showcases items from Mainz's Jewish history, including the gravestone of Gershom ben Judah, alongside cultural and religious items from the 18th and 19th centuries.
Roman-Germanic Central Museum (Römisch-Germanisches Zentralmuseum)
The Römisch-Germanisches Zentralmuseum (RGZM) is both an archaeological museum and a prominent research institute. Housed in the historic Palace of Prince Electors, the museum showcases artefacts spanning from the Stone Age to the Middle Ages. Founded in 1852, its origins are linked to the establishment of a central museum for Roman and Germanic artefacts in Mainz.
The museum is divided into three main departments: Prehistory, Roman Times, and Early Medieval Times. Its focus is on studying the ancient world and its contact zones, particularly Germanic and Roman history. The collections extend beyond Europe, giving attention to developments in Africa and Asia. Most objects are original, but there are also replicas from other museums. The museum's laboratories are renowned for their specialization in the restoration of archaeological pieces, employing modern techniques and have earned international recognition.
Gutenberg Museum
Dedicated to the history of letterpress printing and the culture of writing, the Gutenberg Museum showcases significant printed works from the 15th century onwards. A highlight is the two copies of the world-famous Gutenberg Bible. Visitors can experience printing firsthand in the reconstructed Gutenberg workshop. Four millennia of the history of writing culture from all over the world can be experienced here. Johannes Gutenberg from Mainz plays a leading role, having invented printing with letters from the casting machine and the printing press about 550 years ago.
Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum of Mainz is the largest museum of its kind in Rhineland-Palatinate, offering a deep dive into biology and Earth sciences. Housed in the historic Reichclara Monastery, a former convent founded in 1272, the museum promotes respect for the diversity of nature and humanity’s shared history. The museum evolved from the collections of the natural research institute "Rheinische Naturforschende Gesellschaft". The State Collection of Natural History of Rhineland-Palatinate became a part of the museum in 1988.
Among its notable displays are fossils discovered in Rhineland-Palatinate, including primeval horses from 44 million years ago, and an impressive collection of Ice Age fauna. Visitors can marvel at a savanna elephant, a giant deer, and a woolly rhino. Precious rare exhibits include the Tasmanian wolf, the Java rhino, and the Quagga group. The collection includes rare tracks of dinosaurs and insects from the Permian Period on the Rhine.
Museum of Ancient Shipping
The Museum of Ancient Navigation displays a variety of ancient vessels, from simple boats and canoes to merchant ships, military patrol ships, and battleships.
Carnival Museum (Fastnachtsmuseum)
The Fastnachtsmuseum presents 160 years of Mainz Carnival history, showcasing items like fools' caps, medals, and guards' uniforms.
Stadthistorisches Museum (Mainz City Museum)
Located in the middle of the citadel monument zone, the Stadthistorisches Museum presents excerpts from the city's history, with a permanent exhibition on social, economic, and cultural history. The extensive collection includes uniforms, photos, documents and reserves relating to the garrison history of the city of Mainz, also including a model of the Mainz fortress.
Local Cuisine
Mainz boasts a rich culinary tradition that showcases the best of Rhineland-Palatinate's gastronomy. The city is famous for its simple yet delicious "Weck, Worscht un Woi" combination—a traditional lunch of bread roll, sausage, and wine often enjoyed at local taverns in the old city centre or trendy wineries. A must-try speciality is "Meenzer Spundekäs mit Brezelchen", a creamy cheese dip served with pretzels that perfectly complements the region's renowned wines. The weekly market, held three times a week around Mainz Cathedral, offers an excellent opportunity to sample local delicacies, including the region's celebrated cheese, wine and sausage. For a more substantial meal, visit one of the rustic establishments where you can enjoy regional dishes whilst taking in stunning views—some restaurants even offer unobstructed vistas of the Frankfurt skyline. The city's culinary scene ranges from traditional Rhine-Hessian specialities served in wood-panelled establishments to modern restaurants offering French-inspired cuisine with Asian influences.
Shopping
Mainz offers diverse shopping experiences across its charming city centre. The Old Town features boutiques selling clothes, jewellery, and gifts, with the shopping district stretching between Schillerplatz, the Marktplatz, Höfchen, and Am Brand, an ancient marketplace now converted into a pedestrian zone with clothing stores. Augustinerstrasse, once the town's main shopping street until the 17th century, now houses small shops, boutiques, cafés and wine taverns. The romantic old quarter around Kirschgarten square, Schönbornstrasse and Grebenstrasse offers high-quality goods including jewellery, fashion, books, toys, art, leather goods and fine wines. For local products, the mainz STORE on Domplatz sells wines from Mainz and the region, along with souvenirs and specialities. The city's market, held on Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, is considered one of the region's most beautiful, offering fresh produce in a lively atmosphere. For bargain hunters, the Krempelmarkt flea market on the banks of the Rhine provides opportunities to find antiques and hidden treasures.
Nature in and around Mainz
Mainz offers several natural attractions for visitors to explore. The Stadtpark, a large green space between the old and upper town, features lawns, mature trees, fountains, and winding pathways. Its rose garden, covering 9,500 square metres, boasts about 7,500 roses. The Botanical Garden of Johannes Gutenberg University houses approximately 8,500 plant species from around the world, both in open-air settings and greenhouses. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Wildpark Mainz-Gonsenheim, located near the Lennebergwald nature reserve, provides an opportunity to observe local fauna. The city's location on the Rhine River allows for scenic walks along the riverside and boat trips to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley. Additionally, the surrounding Rheinhessen region offers well-developed cycling routes through vineyards and along the river, catering to both leisurely riders and more adventurous cyclists.
Getting There & Around
Mainz, located at the heart of Europe, is easily accessible by various modes of transport. The city sits in close proximity to Frankfurt am Main and Frankfurt Hahn airports, making it convenient for international travellers. If arriving by train, Mainz Hauptbahnhof serves as the main hub with regular Intercity, Eurocity and Intercity Express connections. Within the city, an efficient public transportation network of trams, buses and night lines makes getting around straightforward. Single tickets cost 2,80 euros, whilst day tickets for Mainz and Wiesbaden are available for 6,50 euros. The MainzCard offers excellent value for visitors planning to use public transport frequently and visit attractions. Mainz's compact city centre is perfect for exploring on foot, with most major sights within walking distance of each other. For those who prefer cycling, the city is accessible via several scenic bicycle routes, including the Rhine Cycle Route. Alternatively, visitors can arrive by boat, with several river cruise operators offering services along the Rhine.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Mainz is during late summer and autumn, from August through November. During this period, the city is awash with colour as the surrounding vineyards transform the landscape. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 9°C to 20°C, making it ideal for exploring the city on foot. Autumn also brings the popular Mainz Wine Market, a delightful event showcasing over 100 local wines in the city's lovely Stadtpark. For those seeking a festive atmosphere, consider visiting during Carnival in February or the Johannisnacht festival in June, which celebrates Johannes Gutenberg with book markets, live performances, and spectacular fireworks over the Rhine. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices during these peak events.
