Gazing upon the Frankenturm, one might hear whispers of bygone eras. The Frankenturm stands as a testament to Trier’s rich history. This fortified residential tower whispers tales of medieval life. The Frankenturm dates back to the 11th century. It housed ministerials, officials serving the archbishop. Its strategic location near the Hauptmarkt suggests a time before Trier had complete city walls. The Frankenturm gets its name from Franco von Senheim, a 14th-century resident. Originally, the entrance was likely on the first floor, accessible by a wooden staircase. This design offered protection from unwanted guests. Imagine the scene: the drawbridge pulled up, the household secure within. Look closely at the Frankenturm’s walls. They are built with alternating layers of rubble stone and Roman bricks, a style reminiscent of Roman ruins. This was a deliberate choice. The builders wanted to evoke the grandeur of Trier’s Roman past. In fact, they even incorporated Roman materials into the structure. The tower’s base and cornerstones consist of large, ancient blocks. A Roman tombstone fragment from the 2nd century serves as a lintel above a first-floor entrance. It’s inscribed with “…BI ET AMA… / …AE SE… / …CONIUG… / …VIS FEC…” meaning “…for himself and for Amandia Seva, his wife, erected during their lifetime…”. Interestingly, the stone is upside down, possibly to ward off perceived pagan magic. In the 14th century, the Frankenturm underwent significant changes. It was reduced to two and a half stories and topped with a sloping roof. Centuries later, in 1938, the upper levels were reconstructed. The tower stands freely today, a proud sentinel against the backdrop of modern Trier. The Frankenturm now serves as a cultural venue. Inside, you’ll find a comprehensive exhibit detailing its long and fascinating history.
Hauptfriedhof
Lost in time stands the Hauptfriedhof Trier. A tranquil expanse in the bustling city it’s more than just a cemetery.