Trier–Oldest City in Germany

There are a few cities in Germany claiming to be the oldest, but only Trier makes the claim of having been a city for the longest time. Other Germany cities making the claim of urban primogeniture have been occupied as long or longer, but none of them were actually cities in the sixteenth century. It was in the year 1473 that the University of Trier was founded, an institution of learning still in operation to this day, a landmark that goes a long way to support Trier’s claim to eldest fame.

Trier’s main attractions are its ancient Roman and medieval buildings. Having been occupied continuously since the first century BC, Trier is rich in these well preserved relics of a bygone age and visitors to Trier are not likely to pass up the largest Roman baths north of the Alps. The Porta Nigra, or black gate, is the best preserved Roman city gate north of the Alps and provides a visitor the rare opportunity to view genuine Roman towers of darkened stone. The rarest site in Trier is one that you’ll have to make serious advanced plans to see. The Trier Cathedral, worth seeing in its own right, houses a garment known as the Holy Tunic, supposedly worn by Jesus when he died. It is displayed only on irregular intervals every few decades to much pomp and circumstance, when those displays are pre-announced.

For an experience you can plan with less difficulty consider annual Brot und Spiele. Brot und Spiele, German for bread and circuses, is the largest Roman festival and is held every summer. If you’ve ever wanted to see a gladiatorial bout–and who hasn’t?–in person, Brot und Spiele is the best option. Trier pays homage to its Roman roots in the amphitheater, where theatrical shows are displayed, and in the baths where Roman life is exhibited. Trier is a city that is very proud of its heritage and is waiting to share it with you.

Eating and Sleeping in Style in Germany

The Steigenberger Hotel Group is known for innovation, luxury, fine service and grand hospitality. The Hotel Thüringer Hof is true German traditional style. Eisenach’s hotel gem, the Thüringer Hof transports its visitor back to the Middle Ages upon entering the lobby. Set in a 16th century mansion complete with an enormous chandelier, wooden stairs and luxurious carpet, this masterpiece of hospitality is genuine Thuringian warmth at its apex.
The restaurant, Galerie, will likewise not fail to impress. Upscale, modern but focusing on traditional dishes and seafood, the Galerie ranges from average to expensive and worth every Euro. If you’re planning on impressing a significant other–and shelling out for the flight to Deutschland didn’t do it–make sure to have reservations at the Galerie.

The Steigenberger Hotel Group has hotels in every area of Germany. When you’re looking for the best, look to the Steigenberger legend of excellent hotels.
Visit www.cometogermany.com/specialoffers/accomodations for more information about Steigenberger’s many hotels in Germany.