Porta Nigra
The best-preserved Roman city gate north of the Alps, built around 170 AD from massive stones without mortar. It is named for its darkened weathering and is a symbol of the city of Trier.
The Porta Nigra was built in the late 2nd century AD as the northern gate of the Roman city wall. It stands nearly 30 meters tall, made of huge sandstone blocks laid without mortar and fixed with iron clamps. A medieval hermit, Simeon, lived here, and the gate was later converted into a two-story church. Only under Napoleon was the order given to remove the church’s later additions and restore the Roman original, so the church’s semicircular apse can still be seen inside today. Climbing the gate offers a view over Simeonstraße and the old town. It is part of the Roman Monuments of Trier UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admission is about 6 euros, and a combined Roman Monuments ticket is available. In summer evenings, a fun guided tour led by costumed centurions takes place, and the gate is right next to the visitor center.
Opening hours
Approx. 09:00–18:00 (until 16:00 or 17:00 in winter)
Nearby sights
- Stadtmuseum Simeonstift
- House of the Three Magi
- Museum am Dom
- Trier Cathedral
- Church of Our Lady
- Hauptmarkt
- Trier Christmas Market
- Basilica of Constantine (Aula Palatina)