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Mainz

Shadows of Mogontiacum: Unearthing Roman Mainz

3.6 km116 min7 stops

What awaits you on this Red Thread tour

Beneath the bustling streets, modern shopping malls, and roaring train stations of Mainz lies a sleeping giant: the ancient Roman metropolis of Mogontiacum. Join urban planner Tom and historical detective Lea on a redthread tour that peels back two millennia of history. You will discover the stark duality of this frontier city—from the brutal military might of the Rhine legions to the luxurious, multicultural civilian life that flourished in their shadow. Prepare to descend into hidden underground sanctuaries, decode ancient curse tablets, and stand before monumental stones that tell tales of imperial ambition and devastating defeat.

Itinerary

1

TOUR START

Museum of Ancient Seafaring

The starting point at the Rhine frontier, housing the remarkably preserved remains of late Roman warships.

Museum of Ancient Seafaring

Pic by dronepicr on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)

0.26 km • 4 min
2

STOP 2

Roman Theatre of Mainz

The excavated remains of a massive 10,000-seat Roman theatre, dramatically integrated next to a modern railway station.

Roman Theatre of Mainz

Pic by Flocci Nivis on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)

0.74 km • 11 min
3

STOP 3

Drusus Stone

A massive Roman cenotaph erected in honor of Nero Claudius Drusus, connecting the city to the imperial family.

Drusus Stone

Pic by Martin Bahmann on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

1.46 km • 22 min
4

STOP 4

Sanctuary of Isis and Mater Magna

An underground archaeological site revealing the diverse, multicultural religious practices of the Roman provinces.

0.65 km • 10 min
5

STOP 5

Dativius Victor Arch

A reconstructed 3rd-century Roman arch honoring a local official, highlighting civic pride and assimilation.

Dativius Victor Arch

Pic by José Luiz on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)

0.11 km • 2 min
6

STOP 6

Jupiter Column (Replica)

A towering monument blending Roman and Celtic religious traditions, symbolizing loyalty and cosmic order.

Jupiter Column (Replica)

Pic by Martin Bahmann on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

0.36 km • 6 min
7

END

Landesmuseum Mainz

The grand finale housing the original Jupiter Column and countless artifacts of daily Roman life.

Landesmuseum Mainz

Pic by Berthold Werner on Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)

Where the tour takes place

Starting point and rough tour area – the exact route unfolds in the app.

Good to know

  • Ideal for History buffs, urban explorers, archaeology enthusiasts, and anyone fascinated by the hidden layers of modern cities.
  • Best time Daytime, preferably between 10 AM and 4 PM when the museums and archaeological sites are fully accessible.
  • What to bring Comfortable walking shoes are essential, as we will be navigating both modern pavements and ancient stones.
  • Museum access Check the opening hours for the Museum of Ancient Seafaring and the Landesmuseum, as they are crucial stops.
  • Weather prep Bring an umbrella or a light jacket; parts of the tour are outdoors and exposed to the Rhine winds.
  • Pacing Take your time at the Isis Sanctuary. The atmosphere underground is something you will want to absorb slowly.
  • Audio Use noise-canceling headphones if possible, especially near the Roman Theatre where modern trains can be loud.
  • Your voucher You can redeem your voucher for two years from purchase. Once redeemed, you have 14 days of access and can enjoy the tour as often as you like during that time.

Your guide

Tom Bennett
Audio sample
0:000:00

Tom Bennett

  • Urbanism, Infrastructure & Innovation
  • Northern England

Architecture and urban planning professional. Explains the city's hidden systems – from mobility to water pipes – clearly and vividly.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get to the tour after buying?

You see your voucher code right after payment – and you also receive it at the email address you entered at checkout. Redeem that code in the Red Thread app; that's where the tour starts.

When does my access start?

Only when you redeem the code in the app, not at purchase. From redemption you have 14 days of access to the tour.

Do I need the Red Thread app?

Yes. The free Red Thread app turns your tour into a vivid experience: with audio, a map, and thoughtful prompts, it guides you from place to place in an engaging and entertaining way. It's available free for iOS and Android.

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