Mattheiser Weiher

Of course, in Trier people were already proud in the Middle Ages of their many churches and monasteries, their saints, and especially of having Saint Peter – one of the highest-ranking heavenly figures – as their city patron. But almost holier than all the saints combined is the Trierer’s Viez, a tart apple wine traditionally served in a 0.4-liter porcelain mug called a “Porz.” What does this have to do with the Mattheiser Weiher? The service tree that grows there, prized since Roman times, was cultivated before the mid-19th century mainly because its highly tannic fruits, when added in small amounts, helped preserve the Viez.

The rest of the 150- to 180-year-old trees aren’t as strategic. Amateur botanists will find black alders and swamp cypresses, willows and rushes, water and sword lilies, as well as white water lilies that were first planted there in the 1950s. If you’re more of an animal lover, you can watch various river and bird species swimming around, practicing flight, and building nests – in late summer, also on day outings with their newly expanded families. And you won’t be missing out on some exercise either. Leisurely walking paths circle the Mühlen- and Herrenweiher, and you can also make a detour to the somewhat higher-lying Südbad with diving towers, a water play garden, and a children's play area. The Südbad opens from the first warm swimming days of the season; if you prefer to stay on dry land or visit the city on cooler days, you should definitely check out the mini golf course (closed Tuesdays).