Organs in the Aula Palatina

The pipe organ housed in the Aula Palatina contains over 6000 pipes and produces exceptional sound quality throughout the vast Roman basilica hall. The instrument spans the width of the space and is designed so that its sound fills the entire massive structure of this ancient building.

The Aula Palatina was built in 310 AD under Emperor Constantine as a throne room and served for centuries as the most important administrative building in Trier. The current pipe organ was installed in 2014, adding a modern musical dimension to a space that once housed imperial authority.

The organ is played regularly during concerts and Protestant services, drawing music lovers and worshippers who gather in this former Roman throne room to experience classical works. Performances here blend religious practice with concert tradition, creating a space where both spiritual and musical expression take place.

The best way to hear the instrument is to visit during Sunday worship services or scheduled concert events, with times announced at the entrance. Visitors should check ahead or look at the information board to confirm that music will be played during your planned visit.

The instrument benefits greatly from the pillarless design of the hall, which remains the largest surviving single-room structure from the entire Roman Empire. This architectural feature creates acoustics that cannot be found in any other historical building of this kind.