Mainz-Oberstadt emerged from an administrative reform around 30 years ago. As Mainz city center had become too large as an administrative district, it was divided into four districts: Altstadt, Neustadt, Hartenberg/Münchfeld, and Oberstadt. Oberstadt is therefore not a district that has grown organically. The Roman city of Mainz

has its origins in the Oberstadt area: as early as 90 AD, a Roman legion established its military camp on the Kästrich (from Latin castrum). The civilian population—soldiers' families, craftsmen, merchants, and Rhine boatmen—settled around it. Traces of ancient times, such as the Roman theater and the Roman stones, remnants of the former aqueduct from Mainz-Finthen to the city center, can still be found in many places in the Oberstadt today.

They are not only of interest to archaeologists, but are also admired by locals and visitors from all over the world. The old cellars of the Kupferberg sparkling wine cellars, which have been based on the Kästrich since 1850, are also of Roman and medieval origin. Military camps, fortifications, powder tower, and citadel—the hill, once used for defensive purposes, is now rather tranquil in character. Beyond the Gau and Römertor gates, the citadel, and the Volkspark, an attractive residential and recreational area has developed since the 19th century.

Wilhelminian style villas, large parks, interesting urban settlements from the 1920s, and the baroque citadel from the 17th century characterize the character and appearance of the upper town.

Mainz's hospitals and university clinics are also located here. And let's not forget the more than 500-year-old Johannes Gutenberg University, whose campus is located in Mainz-Oberstadt and which plays a key role in shaping scientific and cultural life in Mainz. Around 35,000 students are currently enrolled at the university and its more than 150 institutes and clinics. The Oberstadt

offers residents and visitors many opportunities for recreation, whether strolling through the streets and neighborhoods or visiting the extensive green spaces: the city park and rose garden are popular with walkers and athletes, while the Volkspark is particularly appealing to parents and children.