The discovery of three to four floors buried underground.

This may sound like an incredible find, but in reality, it is the Porta Nigra, a remarkable Roman structure located in Trier, Germany. The Porta Nigra, meaning “Black Gate” in Latin, is an ancient city gate that dates back to the 2nd century AD. It stands as one of the best-preserved examples of Roman architecture in the world and has long been a symbol of Trier’s rich history. The gate, originally built as part of the city’s fortifications, was later used as a church and underwent various modifications over the centuries.

The structure’s burial beneath the earth is due to chttpshanges in the surrounding landscape over time. As Trier expanded, the city’s ground level gradually rose, eventually covering parts of the gate. What remains visible today is only the upper portion of the Porta Nigra, while the lower floors were once hidden beneath layers of soil and sediment. Archaeological excavations have uncovered the full extent of the gate’s construction, revealing the hidden floors that had been buried for centuries.

Today, the Porta Nigra stands proudly as a testament to Roman engineering and the city of Trier’s historical significance. Visitors can explore its ancient walls and take in the views of the city from the top. The uncovering of the hidden floors only adds to the intrigue and historical importance of this magnificent structure, offering a glimpse into the past and the architectural prowess of the Roman Empire.