description Mainz Citadel Overview
Mainz Citadel is a historic 17th-century fortress on the Jakobsberg in Mainz, Germany. It forms part of the city's former defensive system and is characterized by bastioned fortification works developed during the early modern period. The site preserves military architecture associated with Mainz's strategic position on the Rhine and is also known for enclosing the Drususstein, a Roman monument.
help Mainz Citadel FAQ
Where is Mainz Citadel located?
Mainz Citadel stands on the Jakobsberg above the old town of Mainz, Germany. The hill has been associated with a Benedictine monastery since 1055, long before the modern fortress. [City of Mainz](https://www.mainz.de/en/angebote-entdecken/zu-gast-in-mainz/sehenswertes/zitadelle)
When was the present Mainz Citadel built?
Construction of the present citadel began in 1655 under Elector Johann Philipp von Schönborn. The main building phases ran from 1655 to 1661 and continued in 1669 under Elector Lothar Franz von Schönborn. [City of Mainz](https://www.mainz.de/en/angebote-entdecken/zu-gast-in-mainz/sehenswertes/zitadelle)
What are the four bastions of Mainz Citadel called?
The regular fortress layout has four corner bastions named Alarm, Tacitus, Drusus, and Germanicus. The names preserve links to Roman and local history while describing the citadel’s early modern defensive design. [City of Mainz](https://www.mainz.de/en/angebote-entdecken/zu-gast-in-mainz/sehenswertes/zitadelle)
Can visitors see anything beneath Mainz Citadel?
The site includes underground passages and former air-raid shelters, as well as the City History Museum in Building D. The city says above-ground and underground tours are offered during the main touring season, generally from April to October. [City of Mainz](https://www.mainz.de/en/angebote-entdecken/zu-gast-in-mainz/sehenswertes/zitadelle)
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
