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We love Germany and I spent quite some time there during my studies, but for some strange reasons only recently we decided to visit Trier, which is a couple of hours away from where we live.
The city was a such a wonderful surprise to us and since our first visit we go there each time we have a free weekend. It is addictive, especially for a passionate of everything Roman, such as myself and my wife. Each time we go we discover something new. A new museum, a new story, even a restaurant that serves dishes from a Roman cooking book.
We all know about Rome and Constantinople as capital cities of the Roman Empire, but less is known that the Roman Empire during its long existence had in fact several capital cities, one of them being for a period, Trier or as the Romans knew it, Augusta Treverorum.
The city was founded in the 1st century BC and bears the marks of the first Christian Emperor, Constantine the Great since it was one of the 4 capital cities during the Tetrarchy, together with Nicomedia, Sirmium and Mediolanum.
Here is a brief list of places one can visit in Trier and experience the Roman history which, in this place, is deeply linked with Christian history.
Aula Palatina (Basilica of Constantine)
This Roman-era basilica, also known as the Aula Palatina, was built during the reign of Emperor Constantine the Great. It served as a throne hall and is now used for concerts. Its massive dimensions and historical significance are awe-inspiring.
Porta Nigra (Black Gate)
The Porta Nigra, meaning “black gate,” is one of the most impressive Roman ruins in Germany. Dating back to the 2nd century AD, it was originally a city gate and later converted into a church. The baroque carvings inside the walls and its layout as a double-decker church make it must-see.
St. Peter’s Cathedral (Trierer Dom)
Trier’s oldest church, St. Peter’s Cathedral, combines Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its impressive architecture and historical significance make it a must-visit. What is even more remarkable about the Dom is that it houses some remarkable relics: Christ’s tunic and one of nails with which he was Crucified.
Rhineland Federal State Museum (Rheinisches Landesmuseum)
The museum houses artifacts, sculptures, and exhibits spanning various periods including the bust of Gaius Julius Caesar Augustus, or Octavianus for friends – the first Roman Emperor (27 BC-14 AD). For anyone passionate about Roman history, this is a fantastic museum to visit.
Trier Amphitheater
The amphitheater, once capable of seating up to 20,000 spectators, hosted gladiator contests and other events. Its elliptical shape and remnants of seating tiers provide a glimpse into ancient entertainment.
The Imperial Baths
The Imperial Baths in Trier are a significant archaeological site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The complex is divided into two parts: the thermae, which are the actual baths, and the palaestra, a large outdoor area for athletic exercises.
The thermae were built around 300 CE during the reign of Emperor Constantius Chlorus, Constantine the Great’s father, and were intended to be one of the largest and most luxurious bath complexes in the Roman Empire. The baths were never fully completed, and the site was abandoned after the fall of the Roman Empire. Today, visitors can explore the remains of the baths, including the impressive hypocaust system, which was used to heat the baths.
