Latin for “black gate,” Porta Nigra is an enduring symbol of Trier’s ancient Roman beginnings. Explore the remarkable building and learn about the days of the Roman Empire.
The gate belongs to the former city walls and was built during Marcus Aurelius’ reign between A.D. 161 and 180. Established to impress and intimidate visitors to the northern Roman territories, the Porta Nigra was a monumental gateway that led to a grand colonnaded road. See the last of these ancient columns on the south side of the gate. As you approach the ancient city gate, you’ll see that it still serves its original purpose. Note the structure’s triple-tiered construction, towers with catapult windows and crowning cornice.
Take a closer look at the weathered sandstone slabs, which were clamped together with molten lead. In the Middle Ages, a church was built next door and a chapel added to the original structure as a tribute to the Greek monk Simeon, who later became a saint. During the early 19th century, Napoleon Bonaparte ordered the gate to be restored to its original state.
Enter the ancient gate and explore its remarkably well-preserved inner court and upper stories. Join a tour with a guide dressed as a Roman centurion army officer and learn about the city that once stood within this gate during the days of the Roman Empire. See if you can spot traces of the old church and the Roman stonemasons’ inscriptions.
Porta Nigra is located on a main road in Trier’s historic center. Check out the ancient structure’s exterior for free or pay an admission fee to explore the gate’s interiors. Guided tours are available in the summer and have a separate fee. The City Museum Simeonstift Trier is located next to the gate. Reach the area easily by bus or on foot from Trier’s main train station (Hauptbahnhof). There is a car parking lot at the nearby Simeonstiftplatz.
