Petersberg Citadel Erfurt Travel Guide

Petersberg Citadel (Zitadelle Petersberg) is a prominent baroque fortress in Erfurt, Germany, with a rich history, distinctive architecture, and proximity to several notable attractions.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, architecture aficionado, or simply seeking breathtaking views, the Petersberg Citadel promises an enriching experience.​

History

The citadel’s origins trace back to 1060 with the establishment of the Benedictine Monastery of St. Peter and Paul. The current fortress was constructed between 1665 and 1707 under the Electorate of Mainz to assert control over Erfurt. Throughout its history, it served various roles:​

• Napoleonic Era (1806–1814): Occupied by French troops; Napoleon visited multiple times, notably during the 1808 Congress of Erfurt.
• Prussian Period (1814–1871): Enhanced fortifications, including bomb-proof structures and defensive barracks.
• 20th Century: Used by Nazi forces for military and detention purposes; post-WWII, it fell under Soviet control and later East German administration.

After German reunification in 1990, extensive restoration efforts transformed it into a historical site open to the public.

Architectural Overview

Petersberg Citadel exemplifies baroque military architecture, featuring:​

• Bastions and Ravelins: Designed for optimal defense.​
• Horchgänge (Listening Passages): Underground tunnels for surveillance.​
• St. Peter’s Church: A Romanesque structure from the 12th century.​

The fortress also houses a restored 1832 wood-fired bakery and offers interactive exhibits detailing its history.

Entrance Ticket Price

• The citadel grounds are generally free to enter.
• There are fees for guided tours, specific exhibitions within the citadel like the Commander’s House, and the underground passages.
• The Visitor Center has details on prices for these. 

Visit Schedule

• The citadel grounds are generally open 24/7.
• Visitor Center:
  • Monday-Sunday: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (check for updates).
• Exhibitions and Guided Tours:
  • Specific exhibitions and guided tours may have different schedules.
  • Check the Citadel’s website for current timings. 

How to Get There

• Location: The citadel is located atop Petersberg hill, overlooking Erfurt’s old town. 
• Public Transport:
  • Tram lines 2, 3, 4, 6 to Domplatz Süd or Domplatz Nord.
  • Bus lines 90 stops at Domplatz Nord.
  • From Domplatz, follow the Panorama Path or use the panoramic elevator to reach the citadel. 
• Walking: You can walk from Erfurt’s city center up the hill to the citadel (approx. 10–15 minutes). 
• Note: The Petersberg bus stop is near the visitor center, with bus stops at the Cathedral Square. 

Where to Eat

• Restaurants within or near the Citadel:
  • Glashütte Petersberg: Offers modern cuisine with panoramic city views.
  • Restaurant PEBERG: Provides fine dining. 
• Restaurants near the citadel:
  • Pier 37 – Das Restaurant: Offers German cuisine with a canal-side terrace.
  • Ost-Terrasse: Enjoy drinks and light snacks with city views.
  • Check out the many cafes and restaurants around Domplatz. 

Petersberg citadel Erfurt Tour Tips

• Explore the Fortress Grounds: Enjoy the panoramic views and explore the citadel’s buildings and fortifications. 
• Visit the Commander’s House: See the multimedia exhibition on the citadel’s history. 
• Take a guided tour: Discover the listening tunnels or explore other parts of the citadel with a guide. 
• Enjoy the view: Petersberg Citadel offers magnificent views of Erfurt, especially at sunset. 
• Attend an Event: Check for concerts, open-air cinema screenings, or other events taking place at the citadel. 
• Wear comfortable shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you’re exploring the underground passages. 
• Panorama Path and Elevator: Consider the panoramic path or elevator for access to the fortress plateau. 
• Combine with a city walk: Combine your visit to the citadel with a walk through Erfurt’s old town. 

Nearby Attractions

The citadel is close to:​

• Erfurt Cathedral (0.36 km): A Gothic cathedral with Romanesque elements.​
• Fischmarkt (0.69 km): A historic market square.​
• Old Synagogue: One of Europe’s oldest synagogues.​
• Krämerbrücke: A medieval bridge lined with shops.​
• Angermuseum: An art museum showcasing regional works. ​

These sites are all within walking distance, making the area rich in cultural and historical significance.​

Visitor Experience

Visitors can explore the citadel’s intricate network of underground passageways, known as “listening tunnels,” which were designed for surveillance and defense. Guided tours offer insights into these tunnels, the fortress’s architecture, and its historical context. The Commander’s House now serves as a visitor center, providing exhibitions and information about the citadel’s past.