Porta Praetoria: A Gateway to Ancient History
Discover the majestic Porta Praetoria in Regensburg, a historical landmark showcasing ancient Roman architecture and the city's rich heritage.
A brief summary to Porta Praetoria
- Unter den Schwibbögen 2, Regensburg, 93047, DE
- +499415074410
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Porta Praetoria is an iconic historical landmark nestled in the heart of Regensburg, Germany. This ancient Roman gate, once part of the fortified walls of the Roman settlement of Castra Regina, dates back to around 179 AD and serves as a striking reminder of the city’s rich history. As you approach this magnificent structure, you will be captivated by its impressive architecture and the stories it holds. The gate was primarily used for military purposes, allowing entry into the fortified city and offering a strategic vantage point over the surrounding area. Today, visitors can admire its well-preserved remains, which stand as a testament to the engineering prowess of the Roman era. As you explore the Porta Praetoria, you’ll find that it is not just a solitary structure but a gateway to the vibrant history of Regensburg. The area surrounding the gate is bustling with cafes, shops, and museums that further enrich your understanding of the city’s past. Take a moment to stroll through the nearby streets, where you can see other historical landmarks and experience the charming atmosphere of Regensburg. The Porta Praetoria is easily accessible and offers a fantastic opportunity for photography, making it a popular spot for tourists. Don’t miss the chance to visit the nearby museums that delve deeper into the Roman history of the region, providing context and insight that will enhance your appreciation of this remarkable site. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking to enjoy the beauty of ancient architecture, the Porta Praetoria is a must-see destination that encapsulates the essence of Regensburg's historical charm.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture stunning photographs.
- Check out the local cafes nearby for authentic German pastries and coffee after your visit.
- Combine your visit with a guided tour of the nearby museums for a comprehensive understanding of Regensburg's Roman history.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the surrounding area is best explored on foot.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, take the A93 highway towards Regensburg. Once in the city, follow the signs for 'Zentrum' (city center). Exit onto B299, which will lead you into the center of Regensburg. After approximately 2 km, you will reach the area around Porta Praetoria located at Unter den Schwibbögen 2. There are several parking options available nearby, including a public parking garage at 'P+R ZOB', which charges around €1.00 per hour.
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Public Transportation - Train
If you are coming from another city in Altbayern, take a regional train to Regensburg Central Station (Regensburg Hbf). From the station, you can walk to Porta Praetoria, which is approximately 1.5 km away. Exit the station and head southwest on Bahnhofstraße until you reach Wahlenstraße, then turn right onto Wahlenstraße and continue straight until you reach Porta Praetoria at Unter den Schwibbögen 2. The walk should take about 20 minutes.
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Public Transportation - Bus
If you are already in Regensburg, you can take bus number 6 or 11 from various parts of the city to reach the 'Kaiserstraße' stop. From there, it is a short 5-minute walk to Porta Praetoria. Head north on Kaiserstraße, take a left onto Unter den Schwibbögen, and continue straight until you see Porta Praetoria. The bus fare is typically around €2.00 for a single journey.
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Walking
If you are already in the vicinity of the Old Town of Regensburg, Porta Praetoria is easily accessible by foot. Simply navigate towards the historic center, and from the Cathedral (Dom St. Peter), head southwest on Domstraße. Continue onto Unter den Schwibbögen, and you will arrive at Porta Praetoria in just a few minutes. This area is pedestrian-friendly and allows for a pleasant stroll through the charming streets of Regensburg.
Attractions Nearby to Porta Praetoria
- Kreuzgang des Dom St. Peter
- St Peter Cathedral
- Domplatz
- DOMPLATZ 5 - Informations- und Besucherzentrum am Dom St. Peter
- UNESCO Besucherzentrum Welterbe Regensburg
- Salzstadel
- Basilica of the Nativity of Our Lady Regensburg
- House of Bavarian History
- document Neupfarrplatz
- New parish church
- Altes Rathaus Regensburg
- Old Stone Bridge
- Rathausplatz
- Hofbräuhaus Regensburg
- Neupfarrplatz
Landmarks nearby to Porta Praetoria
- Goliathhaus c. 1260
- Helenentor
- Gipfelkreuz Keilberg
- Hölle Nature Reserve
- Burg Mitterfels
- Hirschberg Castle
- Naturpark Oberer Bayerischer Wald
- Nabburger Tor
- Alter Fichtenstamm
- Drachenhöhle
- Denkmal für einen Regentropfen
- Upper Palatine Forest
- Burgruine Leuchtenberg
- Naturdenkmal Hochfels
- Český les Protected Landscape Area