Nature and history make the citadel an attraction
Mainz Citadel is a unique excursion destination with historical flair and extensive green spaces. Situated high above the old town, it combines fortress architecture, old trees and attractive walking paths. Visitors can enjoy nature, culture and impressive views of Mainz.
With its old trees, the green citadel grounds invite visitors to stroll, relax, and explore. The moat surrounding the former fortress is also worth a visit. It is particularly significant from an ecological point of view: over 450 animal and plant species are found in the citadel area, 66 of which are on the Red Lists of the Federal Republic of Germany and the state of Rhineland-Palatinate. As a green lung, the protected landscape feature of the citadel provides the city center with fresh air.
Underground passages
The historic citadel grounds now house municipal offices and municipal enterprises, as well as the City History Museum, which displays collections on the social, economic, and cultural history of the city of Mainz in Building D. A particularly interesting attraction for visitors are the underground passages where the people of Mainz took refuge from bombing raids during World War II. The former air-raid shelters can be visited on request through the Mainz Citadel Initiative.
Guided tours and events
The Drusus Stone on the citadel grounds is also worth seeing. The Romans already appreciated the outstanding location of the hill on the southern outskirts of the city and erected a memorial to their commander Drusus, the core of which is still preserved today.
Guided tours of the citadel grounds, both above and below ground, are available. The Geography for All association organizes regular and on-demand guided tours of the fortified city of Mainz, which also cover the citadel.
The Initiative Zitadelle Mainz e.V. also provides information about the citadel and events on the grounds.
Further information
- Interesting facts about the historic Citadel building
- The green of the Mainz Citadel
- Guided tours of the citadel grounds organized by the Initiative Zitadelle Mainz e.V. (opens in a new tab)
- Guided tours of the Geography for All Association (opens in a new tab)
- City History Museum on the Citadel (opens in a new tab)
- Idyll in April 2026: Welcoming spring at the Citadel (opens in a new tab)
Location
Address
Zitadelle
Windmühlenstraße
55131 Mainz