Heidenmauer

The Heidenmauer is a Roman fortification wall in Wiesbaden that extends for considerable length and retains impressive height in places. The construction consists of solid stone layers showing the sturdy building methods used for such defensive structures.

The fortification was built around 370 AD under Emperor Valentinian I, representing one of the oldest preserved structures east of the Rhine. It demonstrates late Roman military strategy for protecting border regions against external threats.

The wall displays repurposed grave markers, votive stones, and architectural pieces from earlier structures, reflecting Roman building methods from the late imperial period. Walking along it, you notice the skilled stonework and thoughtful layering of different materials.

You can see various preserved sections of the wall, including a semicircular tower, by following the path from Schulberg to Marktkirche. The best time to visit is during dry weather so you can clearly see all the stone details.

The structure features two identical altars depicting mythological figures, with one discovered in a nearby sanctuary. The other was skillfully built into the wall itself and remains visible today.