Trier’s iconic Porta Nigra, a nearly 2,000-year-old Roman city gate and UNESCO World Heritage site, will be enclosed in scaffolding for restoration until the end of 2027. The State Office for Property and Construction Management announced the project at the end of 2025, as reported by the newspaper “Trierischer Volksfreund” among others.
Erection of the scaffolding begins next week. A protective covering featuring a printed image of the monument will be installed to preserve its visual presence for visitors. The restoration will focus on the southern facade, proceeding in two phases: work on the east tower will last one year, after which the scaffolding will be relocated to the west tower for work scheduled through late 2027. The project is estimated to cost approximately €1 million.
According to an expert consulted by the Trierischer Volksfreund, the primary goal is conservation. The work involves using laser technology to remove harmful superficial crusts from the sandstone facade, thereby protecting the structure without changing its appearance.
In a related development, plans are also advancing to redesign the square surrounding the Porta Nigra. A proposal from a Berlin-based studio aims to reroute traffic and revitalise the forecourt area. This separate project is not expected to commence before 2027.
