The sign at the city entrance to Trier says “welcome” in at least five languages. It truly is an international city. Founded in 16 BC, it is considered the oldest German city.

I really enjoyed walking around Trier, experiencing so much history.

We saw the churches, listened to the mass and the lovely organ. The kids loved seeing the harvest parade. We got some delicious ice cream and rolls. Then we walked around, window shopping and people watching.

We first visited the oldest cathedral in Germany, Hohe Domkirche St. Peter zu Trier (High Cathedral of Saint Peter in Trier).

The Latin on the clock tower: “You do not know what time the Lord is coming.”

The interior has three Romanesque naves with Gothic vaulting and a Baroque chapel for the relic. It’s quite grand and humongous.

Looking west:

Closeup of the lovely carvings:

Looking east:

The history of the church foundations:

The reliquary supposedly contains the seamless robe of Christ.

The smaller Liebfrauenkirche (Church of Our Lady in Trier) is smaller, more intimate and possesses stunning stained glass.

The Gothic round cruciform floor plan resembles a twelve-petaled rose, a symbol for Mary. The Roman foundations are unable to be viewed by the public.

The Port Nigra dates from about A.D. 180.

There was a small market at the base of the gate with farm animals on display, honey, herbs, fish, cheese, and other fresh and handmade goods.

We enjoyed seeing the lovely symmetry of the buildings. We’d look down alleys and see monuments like this:

and gorgeous doorways:

What a cool fountain with moving parts:

We stopped in a café for a drink before heading home. All the restaurants were super crowded and having a family of six made it difficult to find enough seats for everyone.

We’ll definitely head back to Trier for some other events this year and next. The Christmas market looks amazing.

Check out some fun things to do in Trier for families!

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