Just a short drive from Hotel Weis, the Roman Bridge rises over the Moselle – a place where history and present meet. For almost 2,000 years, it has connected the two banks of the city and is today one of the most famous landmarks of Trier.
As the oldest still-used bridge in Germany, it is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and is a true piece of living history.
The history of the bridge dates back to the founding period of Trier. As early as 17 BC, the Romans built the first wooden bridge at this location, which crossed the river. Two generations later, around 144 AD, they replaced the wooden structure with massive stone pillars made of dark basalt lava – those pillars that still stand in the riverbed today and support the traffic.
Thus, the Roman Bridge is an impressive example of Roman engineering: built without mortar, connected solely by the weight of the stones and iron clamps. Despite floods, wars, and nearly two millennia of history, it still stands stable over the Moselle – a structure that truly endures.
Those with time should take the short walk or bike ride from the Roman Bridge to the old fishing district of Zurlauben. The approximately 1.5-kilometer route runs along the Moselle, past historic hoisting cranes from the 15th and 18th centuries. High above the opposite bank, the Mary Column watches over the city – and at the destination, cozy local establishments, regional cuisine, and a glass of Trier Viez, the traditional apple wine of the region, await.
In Roman times, the Moselle was considered a sacred river. Travelers and merchants who crossed the bridge often threw a coin into the water – as an offering to the river goddess Mosella. Experts suspect that countless coins still lie in the riverbed to this day.
And even though treasure diving is now prohibited, the thought remains fascinating: How many generations have likely walked the same path here?
Even today, the Roman bridge is a lively place. Cars, bicycles, and pedestrians cross the Moselle daily, while the view of the city and the vineyards hints at the charm of bygone times.
Yes, access is free and available around the clock. A walk across the bridge or along the Moselle is worthwhile at any time of year.
About 15 minutes by car or 30 minutes by bike through Mertesdorf and Ruwer – a beautiful route through the Ruwer Valley.
Nestled in the vineyards of the Ruwer Valley, Hotel Weis is peaceful, idyllic, and only about 15 minutes away from the Roman Bridge. From here, your little journey through time begins: through the green Ruwer Valley, along the Moselle, and directly into the history of Trier.
Whether you are traveling by car, bicycle, or simply relaxing by bus and train – the journey itself is already an experience.
After a day full of impressions, Hotel Weis invites you to arrive, enjoy, and feel at home.
The city of Trier is full of history – at almost every corner, you encounter evidence from the time of the Romans. If you visit the Roman Bridge, you should not miss the other highlights:
From our Hotel Weis, you can easily reach all the highlights – ideal for a day trip full of culture, history, and enjoyment.
