π©πͺ Mainz, Germany - Where History Meets Modernity π°π
π The Capital of Rhineland-Palatinate Mainz is the capital and largest city of Germany's Rhineland-Palatinate state, beautifully situated on the left bank of the Rhine River where the Main River joins it. This ancient city was once a powerful ecclesiastical capital - during the Holy Roman Empire, the Archbishop of Mainz served as one of the seven Prince-Electors who chose the Emperor! Today, Mainz boasts: β’ A prestigious university named after printing press inventor Gutenberg π¨οΈ β’ Headquarters of major German TV/radio stations πΊποΈ β’ One of Germany's biggest Carnival celebrations every February π βͺ Mainz Cathedral (Mainzer Dom) Officially "St. Martin's Cathedral," this stunning 1,000-year-old landmark near the Market Square was the seat of the powerful Prince-Archbishops. Its red sandstone walls have witnessed centuries of history! π‘ Media Capital Mainz is home to: β’ ZDF (Germany's second public TV channel) headquarters β’ SWR (Southwest Broadcasting) regional studios β’ Two major newspapers: Allgemeine Zeitung and Mainzer Rhein-Zeitung π¬ Johannes Gutenberg University Founded in 1477 and reestablished in 1946, it's the largest university in Rhineland-Palatinate with the state's only medical school. Over 30,000 students study here today! π π£ Gutenberg Museum Across from the cathedral, this world-famous museum celebrates Mainz's favorite son - Johannes Gutenberg, inventor of movable-type printing. See priceless exhibits including: β’ Original Gutenberg Bibles π β’ Ancient printing presses β’ Global printing artifacts from different cultures Bonus Fun Facts: β’ Mainz's carnival is one of Germany's "Big Three" alongside Cologne and DΓΌsseldorf π β’ The city's wine culture dates back to Roman times - try local Rieslings! π· β’ Look for the cute "Det" cartoon figures on pedestrian traffic lights π¦ #Mainz #Gutenberg #RhinelandPalatinate #GermanyTravel