Museum für Antike Schifffahrt

About

The Museum für Antike Schifffahrt in Mainz offers a captivating glimpse into Roman naval history, showcasing full-scale reconstructions of ancient warships discovered in the Rhine. Founded in 1994 and operated by the Leibniz-Zentrum für Archäologie (LEIZA), the museum is housed in a former railway repair hall near Mainz Central Station. Its centerpiece is the collection of five Roman ships unearthed in 1981 during construction work—now known as the “Mainz Roman ships.” These include patrol boats and cargo vessels from the late Roman period, meticulously reconstructed using traditional techniques. The museum also features models, tools, and multimedia displays that explore shipbuilding, river transport, and military logistics in antiquity. With its immersive layout and hands-on exhibits, the Museum für Antike Schifffahrt bridges archaeology and maritime engineering, offering visitors a dynamic experience of life along the Roman frontier.

Mainz Germany

Location

The Museum für Antike Schifffahrt is located at Neutorstraße 2b in Mainz, near the Mainz Römisches Theater train station which is just about 170 meters southwest of the museum. This museum showcases the maritime history of the Roman era, featuring well-preserved remains of Roman ships, full-scale reconstructions, and exhibits on ancient shipbuilding. The location near the river adds thematic relevance, enriching the experience of ancient maritime heritage. Nearby are the Roman Theatre ruins, the Mainz Citadel, and the lively city center with its cultural institutions, shops, and cafes, making this museum an accessible and engaging stop within Mainz’s historic and cultural landscape. The museum is temporarily closed for modernization but is a key attraction for history enthusiasts when open.