Cathedral at Mainz, Germany

Like so many German cities, Mainz suffered heavy bombing during World War II. 80 percent of the city was destroyed. Damage to the city's cathedral was limited to the loss of most of its roofing.

This is an essentially tenth century building, however its appearance was to be marred somewhat by later additions. "Bunter" stone from Miltenberg was used in its construction, and a redundant column of red Bunter erected in the square is visible to the right of the photo.

A colourful triangular renaissance fountain can be seen to the left of this square, much closer to the cathedral buildings.


The post-war reconstruction has not been as sympathetic as in many other German towns. The massive new buildings occupying the riverbank are devoid of architectural merit, and their height ruins any chance of a picturesque view of the cathedral from the river.

There is one positive outcome from this vandalism. The riverbank excavations required for the construction of the Hilton Hotel on the riverbank resulted in the discovery of substantial remains of four ancient Roman ships.

These finds are located in a new museum, which also houses two full-sized ship reconstructions based on the information obtained from them. A breathtaking museum with many other fascinating exhibits, there is no entry fee - but only a small part of the information provided has been translated into English.



[This blip was added retrospectively in July 2014.]