Mainz

Rhineland-Palatinate's capital proudly displays 2,000 years of history as a Roman stronghold, medieval trading center, and birthplace of printing. Mainz's position at the Rhine-Main confluence made it a powerful ecclesiastical center, while Gutenberg's revolutionary invention here changed the world. Today's city balances media innovation with wine culture and carnival traditions. **Unique Features:** • Gutenberg Museum - celebrating the printing press invention • Mainz Cathedral - 1,000-year-old red sandstone landmark • Rhine riverfront with modern architecture and old town • St. Stephan's Church with Chagall's blue windows • Roman theater remains and ancient ship museum **Historical Context:** Roman Mogontiacum and Gutenberg's printing revolution birthplace **Travel Tips:** • Visit Gutenberg Museum for printing demonstrations • Explore Rhine promenade at sunset • Join wine festivals in surrounding villages • Experience carnival rivaling Cologne's celebrations • Take Rhine cruises to nearby castles • Try Handkäse mit Musik local cheese specialty **Cultural Highlights:** • Mainz Carnival - one of Germany's largest celebrations • Wine culture from surrounding Rheinhessen region • ZDF television headquarters and media industry • State Theatre with opera and drama • Johannes Gutenberg University campus life