Mainz was founded by the Romans as a fortress city on the Rhine in the 1rst century BC. Later in…read morethe 8th century AD, it became the seat of the Holy Roman Empire in Germany. It is not surprising that today evidence of it's past is still visible. One place to look for evidence of Roman occupation is in the Romano-Germanic Central Museum. Also, take note of Jupiter's column and Drusus's Mausoleum, as well. . Mainz also has many houses of worship like the Mainz Cathedral. The patron saint at this cathedral is St. Boniface whose statue is in front of the cathedral. St, Stephan's Church is often visited by tourists mainly for it's Marc Chagall blue stained windows.
The most important landmark and museum in the city is the Gutenberg Museum. Johannes Gutenberg created his movable-type while in Mainz. His most important work was the Gutenberg Bible. Copies of that bible can be seen in the museum. as well as, other examples of his printing.
Although Mainz was heavenly damaged during WWII, a great majority of the buildings, statuary and art have been reproduced to their original likeness. The Altstadt is a collection of Medieval and Renaissance architectural features. As you enter the the city take note of the 13th Century Iron Tower, city gate. The Renaissance fountain is a stand-out in the main square and can not be missed. Gardens, floral displays, cobbled pedestrian walk-ways, 15th-18th century buildings and outdoor cafes complete the picture. In the market square stands the Heunensaule, a monument symbolizing the history of Mainz. The monument displays an Imperial Roman helmet, a Bishop's mite and a French foul's cap.
Across from the State Theater is a statue of Gutenberg. In this area there are many restaurants without door seating. In Germany the waiter's service fee is included included in the price. They have an excellent Museum called the Museum of Ancient Ship Building for those that are interested in such things. Mainz is wine country so many shops sell the local wine products. Blue Nun wines developed by the Sichel family is one offering you might be familiar with.
