Archaeological Gardens, Frankfurt

The Archaeological Gardens of Frankfurt are located at the centre of the city between the Schirn Art Gallery and the technical Town Hall. Excavations showing the earliest remains of the first settlements in Frankfurt are available at the Park.

The oldest buildings in the city of Frankfurt were found at this location. Excavations revealed Roman baths from the 1st and 2nd century with a Hypocaust or an ancient central heating system within Roman walled fortifications. There are also remains of the subsequent Alemannish and Frankish settlements including the foundations of the 7th century Carolingian Imperial Palace built by Ludwig the Pious, King of the Franks and the son of Charlemagne. The foundation of its large square King’s Hall can be viewed at the site. Remains of the central pillars leading to an ancient Chapel of the Savior are on view. The foundations of the chapel form part of the excavations. To the east and west of these pillars are ancient cellars of the houses of medieval middle class Burghers.

Many of the objects and artifacts found during the excavation are preserved in the nearby Archaeological Museum. The excavations began in 1953 and the gardens were opened for public viewing in 1973.