Porta Praetoria Roman Gate
A remarkably preserved Roman gateway, the Porta Praetoria offers a tangible link to Regensburg's ancient past as Castra Regina.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Porta Praetoria Roman Gate
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A remarkably preserved Roman gateway, the Porta Praetoria offers a tangible link to Regensburg's ancient past as Castra Regina.
"A cool sight to see when you are walking down the street and you see it. So much Roman history here."
📍 Easy to Find
Located near Regensburg Cathedral, follow signs for Domplatz and then Goliathstraße.
👟 Cobblestone Comfort
Wear comfortable shoes! The Old Town has cobblestone streets, so heels are not recommended. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Porta Praetoria Gateway
Goliathstraße / Unter den Schwibbögen
Marvel at the imposing stone remnants of this ancient Roman gateway, a testament to centuries of history.
Roman Military Camp Echoes
Adjacent to the gate
Imagine the bustling Roman military camp that once stood here, a vital outpost on the Danube.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Glimpse of Roman Power
Navigating Regensburg's Historic Heart
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📍 Easy to Find
Located near Regensburg Cathedral, follow signs for Domplatz and then Goliathstraße.
👟 Cobblestone Comfort
Wear comfortable shoes! The Old Town has cobblestone streets, so heels are not recommended. :athletic_shoe:
📜 Historical Context
Look for explanation signs to understand the gate's significance. :scroll:
📸 Great Photo Op
The gate is a striking backdrop for photos, especially with the historic buildings around it. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
📍 Easy to Find
Located near Regensburg Cathedral, follow signs for Domplatz and then Goliathstraße.
👟 Cobblestone Comfort
Wear comfortable shoes! The Old Town has cobblestone streets, so heels are not recommended. :athletic_shoe:
📜 Historical Context
Look for explanation signs to understand the gate's significance. :scroll:
📸 Great Photo Op
The gate is a striking backdrop for photos, especially with the historic buildings around it. :camerawithflash:
🆓 Free to See
The Porta Praetoria is an outdoor monument and free to view. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Porta Praetoria a fascinating glimpse into Regensburg's Roman past, appreciating its historical significance and central location near other key sights. While some note it's a preserved remnant rather than a complete structure, its presence is considered a cool historical discovery, especially for those interested in Roman history. It's often seen as a worthwhile quick stop during a city tour.
"When in Regensburg, you must go see the Porta Praetoria. It is a gate preserved from Roman times. From what I understand, this was the Northernmost gate to the Danube River. It is only partially preserved but it is still such a cool sight to see when you are walking down the street and you see it. For me, it's always as great to see it as it was the very first time that I came across it, purely by chance. There is so much Roman history here.
This city is so cool.
It is located right behind the Regensburg Cathedral ( The Regensburg Dom). So, you make sure that you are on Domplatz then keep on walking, following the curve of Domplatz, it will curve to the right. Follow it, and the street becomes Krautermarktstraße. When you reach the end, turn right and you will be on Goliathstraße. Stay on it and it becomes Unter den Schwibbögen. You will immediately see the big Porta Praetoria to your right."
mar zald
"If you are expecting to see very much Roman-era building works here in Germany, you're probably going to be disappointed. Yes, they should be properly preserved and documented. But you will only see a very few stones in the outline of a gateway that look exactly like the photos. Cool, but not particularly destination-worthy on their own. I heard a guide tell someone that Pope Benedict used to live there. Not sure where they got that gem from (he didn't). Certainly worth a quick look-see if you're already in town."
Kate Jones
"If you're a history buff, you've got to see this. Got to love those! Romans."
Francine Jensen
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Porta Praetoria is centrally located in Regensburg's Old Town, easily accessible on foot. If arriving by public transport, take a bus to the 'Regensburg, Dom' stop. From there, it's a short walk. :bus: Many visitors find it by following signs towards the Regensburg Cathedral (Dom St. Peter) and then heading towards Goliathstraße.
Parking in Regensburg's Old Town can be challenging and expensive. It's recommended to use public parking garages like 'Parkhaus am Dom' or 'Parkhaus Goliathstraße' which are within walking distance. :car: Consider public transport if possible.
Yes, Regensburg is a bike-friendly city. There are bike racks available near the city center, and cycling is a great way to explore the Old Town. :bicycle:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Porta Praetoria is an outdoor monument and is freely accessible to the public at all times. You can view it from the street. :ticket:
As an outdoor historical site, the Porta Praetoria does not have specific opening hours. It can be viewed at any time of day or night. :clock1:
There is no entrance fee to see the Porta Praetoria. It's a historical landmark integrated into the city's fabric. :moneywithwings:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Porta Praetoria is a remarkably preserved Roman city gate, dating back to 179 AD. It was the northern gateway to the Roman military camp Castra Regina, which is now modern-day Regensburg.
You can see the impressive stone structure of the ancient Roman gate, which once served as a grand entrance. While only a portion remains, it offers a powerful glimpse into Roman architecture and the city's origins.
The area around the Porta Praetoria is generally accessible, but be aware that the surrounding Old Town features cobblestone streets which can be uneven. :wheelchair:
Public restrooms can be a bit scarce in the immediate vicinity. Your best bet is to look for facilities within nearby cafes, restaurants, or public buildings like the Regensburg Cathedral. :toilet:
Even if you're not a history enthusiast, the Porta Praetoria is a striking piece of ancient architecture that stands out amidst the medieval cityscape. It's a quick and impressive sight, especially given its age.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, minimizing crowds and creating a more atmospheric shot. Golden hour can cast a beautiful glow on the ancient stones. :sunriseovermountains: :city_sunset:
No, photography for personal use is generally permitted at the Porta Praetoria. Be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. :iphone:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a walk across the Stone Bridge (Steinerne Brücke), another historical marvel, or explore the Regensburg Cathedral. Look for interactive elements or stories about Roman life that might engage younger visitors. Remember to pack snacks and drinks, as finding immediate facilities can sometimes be a challenge in the historic center.
🏛️ History Buffs
Consider joining a local guided tour that focuses on Regensburg's Roman history. Guides can provide in-depth context and point out details you might otherwise miss. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon can offer a more contemplative experience, allowing you to truly absorb the historical atmosphere.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Roman Legacy of Regensburg
While much of the Roman city has been built over or lost to time, the Porta Praetoria stands as one of the most significant surviving Roman structures in Germany. Its preservation allows us to connect directly with the history of Roman settlement in the region, offering a tangible link to the soldiers and citizens who lived and worked here nearly two millennia ago.
Experiencing the Porta Praetoria is like stepping back in time. Imagine legionaries marching through this very gateway, the sounds of a Roman city echoing around you. It’s a humbling experience that underscores the enduring impact of the Roman Empire on European history and urban development.
Navigating Regensburg's Old Town
Many visitors discover the Porta Praetoria by chance while exploring the Old Town, often in conjunction with a visit to the magnificent Regensburg Cathedral (Dom St. Peter). The gate is located just a short walk from the cathedral square, making it an easy addition to any itinerary.
When exploring, keep an eye out for various historical markers and explanation signs that provide context about the buildings and sites you encounter, including the Roman gate. This enriches the experience and helps you appreciate the layers of history present in Regensburg.
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