Petersberg Fortress

The construction of the Petersberg Citadel began in 1665 by order of the Elector of Mainz, Johann Philipp von Schönborn. It was intended to serve as a stronghold against the city of Erfurt, which had previously defended its autonomy against the Electorate of Mainz. The fortress was built in the New Italian style and protected the Electorate as its northernmost outpost. In the early 19th century, the citadel was briefly occupied by French and Prussian troops. After the Congress of Vienna in 1815, it fell to Prussia and was used as a military installation until the German Empire was founded in 1871. It maintained its military significance during both World Wars. From 1963, the site was partially opened to the public, and extensive renovation work has been carried out since 1990.

The Petersberg Citadel is located in the center of Erfurt, the state capital of Thuringia, Germany. It stands at an elevation of approximately 227 m above sea level.

Today, the Petersberg Citadel can be visited. Its historic buildings house government offices, residences, and tourist and cultural facilities.

• Erfurt Cathedral (sacred building), approx. 0.5 km away
• Augustinian Monastery (sacred building), approx. 0.9 km away
• Cyriaksburg Citadel (fortress), approx. 1.5 km away
• Gispersleben Manor House (manor and estate), approx. 4.7 km away