Porta Nigra: Trier's Roman Gateway
Explore the Porta Nigra, Trier's iconic Roman gate: a journey through centuries of history, from Roman empire to medieval church, offering panoramic city views.
The Porta Nigra, or 'Black Gate,' is Trier's iconic landmark and the best-preserved Roman city gate north of the Alps. Constructed from massive sandstone blocks in the 2nd century AD, this UNESCO World Heritage Site served as the northern entrance to the Roman city of Augusta Treverorum. Over the centuries, it has been a city gate, a church, and a symbol of Trier's rich history. Visitors can explore its imposing structure, climb to the top for panoramic city views, and even encounter a Roman centurion, offering a glimpse into the past. Its sheer scale and historical significance make it a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Trier, offering a tangible connection to the Roman Empire's legacy in Germany.
A brief summary to Porta Nigra
- Porta-Nigra-Platz, Trier, 54290, DE
- +496514608965
- Visit website
Local tips
- Climb to the top of the Porta Nigra for stunning panoramic views of Trier's old town.
- Join a guided tour with a guide dressed as a Roman centurion for an engaging historical experience (available in summer).
- Purchase the AntikenCard Trier for discounted access to multiple Roman monuments in the city.
- Visit the City Museum Simeonstift Trier, located next to the Porta Nigra, to learn more about Trier's history.
- Take your time to explore the interior chambers and spot traces of the old church and Roman stonemasons' inscriptions.
Getting There
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Walking
From Trier Hauptbahnhof (main train station), the Porta Nigra is approximately a 10-minute walk. Exit the station and walk straight ahead, following the signs towards the city center (Zentrum). Continue along Christophstraße, passing the Balduin fountain. Shortly before reaching the Porta Nigra, Rindertanzstraße will be on your left. Turn left onto Rindertanzstraße, then turn right onto Glockenstraße at the end of the street. The Porta Nigra will be directly in front of you.
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Public Transport
Several bus lines connect Trier Hauptbahnhof to Porta Nigra. From the Hauptbahnhof, take bus lines 6, 8, 30, 80, 82, 87 or 58/S towards the city center. The bus ride takes approximately 2 minutes, with buses departing every 10 minutes. Get off at the 'Trier, Porta Nigra' stop, which is directly in front of the gate. A single bus fare within Trier is approximately €2.60.
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Taxi/Ride-Share
A taxi or ride-share from Trier Hauptbahnhof to Porta Nigra is the quickest option, taking only a few minutes. The cost is estimated to be between €6-€8. Taxis are readily available outside the main entrance of the train station.
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Driving
If driving, follow signs towards 'Zentrum' and 'Porta Nigra'. Parking is available in several parking garages near the Porta Nigra, including the underground parking garage at Simeonstiftplatz. Parking fees typically range from €2-€3 per hour. Be aware that street parking near the Porta Nigra is limited and often restricted.
Discover more about Porta Nigra
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